Did you know that what was once called “primitive” is now being sold as luxury culture?
That’s a sharp critique of how African culture has been misunderstood and commodified.
What was once called “primitive” is now being sold as luxury culture?

For centuries, African art, fashion, and traditions were dismissed by colonizers as “primitive” or “uncivilized.” Yet today:

- African masks, textiles, and designs inspire high-end fashion brands and art collectors worldwide.

- Jewelry and hairstyles once stigmatized are now celebrated and commodified on runways and in magazines.

- Cultural symbols are appropriated without credit, often divorced from their original meaning and community significance.

-Meanwhile, many African creators and communities see little financial benefit from this global fascination.

-This shift exposes deep questions about respect, ownership, and the legacy of colonialism in the art and fashion worlds.

Quote for Thought
“From ‘primitive’ to prized — but who truly owns the story?”
— Reclaiming Culture