African Gameskin’s latest FSP Free Spirit Collection of leather bags combines a luxurious materiality with an African design aesthetic.
After successfully launching the FSP collection at this year’s Design Indaba Expo, African Gameskin have extended the series with the FSP Free Spirit Collection being launched min-June 2013.
We asked African Gameskin owner, Fiona Spolander a few questions about the FSP Free Spirit Collection:
How did the Free Spirit range come about?
We were inspired by the luxurious leather, which lent itself to the tassels and details I wanted to incorporate.
Does the collection incorporate different styles?
We have developed five relaxed styles, which reflect the natural feel of the leather. We always aim to let the natural character of the leather shine while creating handcrafted timeless styles expressing real luxury.
What kind of leather was used for the bags?
We used high-quality full grain Bovine leather with a special shadow finish to keep the leather looking as natural as possible.
What was the design process behind developing, designing and manufacturing the bag?
The Free Spirit Collection came from an emotional point of reference after a period of introspection, deep sorrow and withdrawal. What emerged was a new-found strength that celebrated life and a new sense of self. The collection is reflective of my love affair with leather and design. All of the bags are manufactured in our studio in Cape Town by a group of skilled artisans that I have the privilege to work alongside.
What do you believe makes the collection special?
We tried to stay true to our FSP philosophy of authenticity, integrity and attitude.
Fiona Spolander established the company after rediscovering her heritage while seeking out all that is rare and unique within South African borders.
Products include a wide variety of superbly tanned leathers sourced from local and overseas tanneries with a particular focus on indigenous African animal skins such as zebra and springbok. Finished products represent the highest quality, well manufactured, and environmentally friendly South African crafts conforming to fair trade practices.
