Bambizulu x HandmadeAfrica at Decorex Capetown 2025

When everyday objects become art, and collaborations become movement.

In June 2025, Bambizulu made its Decorex Cape Town debut in a way we could never have imagined — with a pink broom wall installation that took on a life of its own. A part of the Handmade Africa Pavilion, this immersive piece quickly became the soft, pink heart of the show. People didn’t just look at it — they engaged, photographed, questioned, celebrated.

But like all powerful work, this didn’t start with the fanfare. It started months ago, with intention.

The Story Behind the Chela Broom Wall Installation

Chela, in isiZulu, refers to a spiritual act of cleansing — an ancestral ritual of sweeping with water and broom to purify space and spirit. For generations, this practice has lived quietly in rural homes and sacred ceremonies.

Our installation reimagined this humble, meaningful tool — not as a forgotten household item, but as a bold visual language. Each broom was handmade with grass from Nongoma and woven with ilala palm sourced from Mbazwana. The weaving was done by incredible women artisans from KwaZulu-Natal — the very hands who continue to carry tradition into the now.

What emerged was more than a photo moment. It became a symbol of everyday beauty, cultural preservation, and collaborative storytelling.

Introducing Luminaire d’Afrique: Lighting Born of Craft & Collaboration

Alongside the broom wall, we also launched something very close to our hearts — Luminaire d’Afrique.

This new platform is dedicated to world-class lighting, entirely crafted on the African continent. These inaugural pieces were co-created in collaboration with Handmade Africa, Ngwenya Glass, master weaver Beauty Ngxongo, a collective of the Bambizulu team across KZN, and a specialist lighting designer and manufacturer based in Johannesburg.

Each light blends centuries-old techniques with modern precision — from hand-blown recycled glass to intricately woven palm, telephone wire textures and beads, assembled with engineered detail. These luminaires don’t just illuminate spaces — they carry the legacy, ingenuity, and future of African design.

In Gratitude & In Good Company

Being invited into the Handmade Africa Pavilion was more than just an exhibition opportunity. It was a chance to share space with some of the most inspiring makers and thinkers across the continent. We’re deeply thankful to the Handmade Africa team and the creative direction of Decorex for giving our ideas room to shine — and for trusting in the strength of our stories.

Cape Town, your love and feedback have been overwhelming in the best way. Thank you for seeing the work, feeling the heart behind it, and celebrating with us.

This is only the beginning.