Moyo’s Pearl Jam

Design Indaba Alumnus Unveils a Large-Scale Conceptual Installation at Design Miami

Design Indaba alumnus Nicole Nomsa Moyo has unveiled Pearl Jam, the 10th Annual Miami Design District Commission winner, at Design Miami. This large-scale conceptual installation celebrates African heritage, cultural expression, and womanhood. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in South Africa, Moyo draws profound inspiration from the traditional artistry of Ndebele culture. The installation showcases "pearls" as large, jewelry-inspired pieces arranged throughout the Miami Design District, featuring intricate beadwork, bold geometric patterns, a vibrant color palette, and iconic motifs synonymous with Ndebele traditions.

The installation includes ground-level sculptures resembling oversized bracelets and necklaces, as well as earring-like elements suspended from trees. These pieces, crafted primarily from aluminum, range in height from 15 centimeters to two meters and are meticulously embellished with traditional Ndebele patterns.

Honoring cultural tradition and craftsmanship, the beaded “pearls” were handcrafted by women artisans from the Ndebele community in Southern Africa. These elements carry deep symbolic meaning, reflecting community values, fostering cultural pride, and celebrating the role of women as cultural custodians. Moyo estimates that over 100,000 beads were used to create the installation’s monumental components.

Through Pearl Jam, Moyo reimagines traditional Ndebele elements as monumental public sculptures, bridging heritage and contemporary design. She views the project as a continuation of cultural expression, inviting global audiences to engage with the aesthetics and values of Ndebele traditions in a modern context. Pearl Jam also serves as an offering of self-discovery and reimagined cultural art, ensuring the enduring relevance of these traditions in the evolution of art and design.