in partnership with The Black Curriculum

This year has raised unexpected questions and confusing contentions. We realise that as individuals we can’t do everything, but through collaboration, we can do something - we can make positive change and let our collective voices be heard. Collaboration is harmony.

As Nelson Mandela believed, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” As a team we recognise the priceless value in the collaboration of ideas. For our latest project, we have gathered a team of creatives to assist in re-imagining the future of Education through Black British history in the UK Curriculum.

We’re sending all proceeds from the tee to The Black Curriculum, an organisation that aims to provide a sense of belonging and identity to young people in the UK. They raise attainment and improve social cohesion through the education of an accessible Black British curriculum. (This tee is now sold out).

the art

The ‘collaboration is harmony’ project features custom artwork by the undoubtedly talented illustrator Paris. Her art captures the strength of unity & solidarity this project was built on. We sat down with Paris to find out more about her journey as an artist::

I’m cautious of those who want to take ideas from black young creatives like myself and present them as their own or remove your name from the work. I’m probably at a disadvantage yes but I won’t let it be detrimental to my plans.

How did you get into illustrating?

I’ve always enjoyed art and drawing has been a hobby of mine since I was a child. If I’m honest it didn’t take me long to realise it was something that came relatively easy to me and I was always encouraged and praised for the little sketches and now full creative pieces. Growing up it felt natural that pursuing a career in the creative industries may be a good option for me. 

Is there a recurring theme or inspiration behind your work? 

I don’t intentionally set myself themes when creating but I guess the things I enjoy and the desire to see parts of myself reflected in my art is a reoccurring theme. My main interest is to draw people that have the same features as me, for the shades of brown I see within my friends and family to be depicted artistically.

As a black creative what does the industry look like for you? Are you at a disadvantage? 

That’s a good question. The industry looks exciting but also daunting. Although I’ve seen the fruits of my labour so far and have had my moments of exposure and opportunities I’m still aware of the gatekeepers that are in certain places. I’m cautious of those who want to take ideas from black young creatives like myself and present them as their own or remove your name from the work. I’m probably at a disadvantage yes but I won’t let it be detrimental to my plans. 

As the artist behind this tee, do you have any thoughts to share on the work/project? 

I think it’s a project with good intention and thoughtfulness. Even though I created the art I’m more interested in the long term impact that can be made by how we are supporting The Black Curriculum.

Check our the rest of Paris’ work here: @paris_miami

the conversation

vaabs founders, Tebo & Jay, discuss how ‘collaboration is harmony’ was conceived, what the concept means to them and their hopes for the conversation to continue.

“The biggest loss in the end is if we come out on the other side of this unchanged.”

- Jerry Lorenzo