This morning, I decided i wanted to look into fabric design, screenprinting, etc. I ended up on a site, that was filled with lots of info. There, I came across a link to the "South African Designers Guide."

I was so excited to see what this offered, as i know that the South African region has a looong history of rich, vibrant and intricate design.

What i found surprised me! Not only were there no bold, colorful, intricate designs, but NONE of the featured designers were Black. Not one! Now i know that S.A. is a very mixed country, but MOST of the people there are Black, so their exclusion was a bit suspect.

I mean, over the years I’ve seen some absolutely fabulous art and design that has come from South Africa. Some of it was "revolutionary art" that was in direct response to that countries racist history. Some was the celebration of the spirit that permeates oppressed people.

So how, in this guide, was none of that included?

And the comments!!! While there were many people who asked the same question that i am, there were some, that were downright disturbing!

Historical Amnesia!

How is it possible, to live in a country with the oppressive history that South African has, and say "there is no color here, we are all South African. It's just about the design"

And how is it possible to have a book entitled “The South African Designers Guide” without the designers who are descended from people who have struggled and died for their freedom.

See for yourself: http://www.designspongeonline.com/2007/12/south-african-designers-guide....

And take a look at a site that is run by a Black South African women: http://www.stonedcherrie.co.za/gallery.html

PS. This all just made me love YMIB more, keep up the work that you are doing.