When African craftsmanship meets contemporary design
Violaine Beh Sagna, a French-Senegalese designer, launched her brand Atelier 22B shortly after Covid. Skilfully blending tradition and modernity, she creates unique pieces that celebrate ancestral know-how while meeting the demands of contemporary, responsible design. Her atypical career path, oscillating between the world of multinationals and that of creation, makes her an inspiring figure of creative entrepreneurship.
An atypical career
After a successful career in consulting, Violaine Beh Sagna decided to devote herself entirely to her passion for design and creation. That’s how she decided to found Atelier 22B, an interior design brand that combines aesthetics, ethics and social impact.
A unique creative approach
Violaine Beh Sagna’s creative process is deeply rooted in her collaboration with African artisans. Drawing on ancestral techniques, she revisits everyday objects to give them a new dimension. Each piece is unique, the fruit of a dialogue between contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship. Natural materials, such as wood, leather and plant fiber, are favored for their beauty and durability.
The wickerwork lighting fixtures, created in collaboration with Senegalese craftsmen, are a perfect example of this approach. By hijacking a traditional technique, Violaine Beh Sagna has created objects that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Social commitment at the heart of the project
Atelier 22B goes beyond aesthetics. The brand is socially committed. By working with artisans, it preserves traditional know-how. It also improves local living conditions. A concrete example: its partnership with the Colombins in Ouacam.
Violaine Beh Sagna has big ambitions for Atelier 22B. She wants to make her brand a benchmark for African design. She wants to develop new collections, expand distribution and strengthen ties with artisans. Her objective is clear: to showcase the talent of African designers and promote more responsible consumption.
A pop-up in Paris
To showcase its creations, Atelier 22B is organizing a pop-up store in partnership with the Taaranyi brand, in the heart of the Marais district. For three days, design enthusiasts will be able to discover the brand’s latest collections in a warm and festive setting. The event is an opportunity to showcase the expertise of African artisans.
Violaine Beh Sagna embodies a new generation of African designers. By combining tradition and modernity, she is helping to change perceptions of African design. Her background and commitment make her a role model for all those who wish to reconcile passion, ethics and professional success.
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