ART+ STYLE – Najee Strickland: Blue Gold

Please join us at Transmission Gallery for this special Oakland Style Week event! Stop in any time Saturday afternoon, October 12th, to meet Najee Strickland and see his new collection! Strickland and artist William Rhodes, whose fiber-based artwork will also be on view, will discuss their work during the Oakland Style Week Bus Tour Stop scheduled for 4 pm.

On October 12th, Najee Strickland will be unveiling Blue Gold, a new collection of designs crafted from recycled denim. This collection aims to highlight the issue of overconsumption in fast fashion and the environmental impact reflected in the mountains of clothing found on the shores and in the oceans of Accra, the capital of Ghana. ​

Incorporating Adinkra symbols—visual representations of concepts, proverbs, and aphorisms—this collection pays homage to their origins among the Gyaman people of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast). Historically, these symbols adorned the clothing worn by royalty during significant ceremonies. Today, they transcend their cultural roots, appearing in logos, fashion, furniture, architecture, and more. This evolution reflects their global significance and the recognition of their rich cultural heritage.

Also on view at Transmission Gallery will be TRIBUTE, a solo exhibition of work by William Rhodes. Two recent quilts, featuring hand painted portraits encircling a central featured image, and a series of framed threaded drawings pay tribute to the people who have inspired Rhodes throughout his life, from the members of his family and community to well recognized leaders and activists. Strickland’s new collection was created in part as a response to Rhodes’ work. Both Strickland Rhodes will be on hand, October 12th.