Images by Tobias Kvendseth

MARGARET ABESHU: CHROMA FLUX 003

21-30 SEPTEMBER 2024

It was our pleasure to present a series of works by artist Margaret Abeshu and the launch of Chroma Flux 003, her ongoing collection development. She joined us during B-Open weekend in September 2024.

This project is part of Margaret Abeshu’s Namummaa Sartorial Practice, which combines theory and craftsmanship and explores Fashion as a transformative space, investigating the intersections of craftsmanship, time, and critical thought.

Chroma Flux 003 is rooted in personal healing, reflecting on the contradictions and challenges faced by a Black designer in an industry historically embedded in anti-Blackness. It questions both the joys and frustrations of fashion’s cyclical nature, the tension between self-expression and societal expectations, and the deep human connection to creating and wearing garments.

Produced during a period of solitude (10 weeks), the collection centers on crafting for oneself—creating garments and textiles that emphasize improvisation and intuition in the journey toward self-acceptance. Namummaa (Oromo for “humanness”) lies at the heart of this practice, embracing a relational philosophy rooted in Oromo culture while challenging Western-centric ideologies.

This ongoing sartorial journey integrates Oslo-based production, craftsmanship, and aesthetic values, using Fashion as a medium for self-reflection, critique, and, ultimately, joy.


MORE ABOUT MARGARET ABESHU:
Margaret is a designer and artist based in Oslo, originally from Ethiopia. She holds an MA in Clothing and Costume Design from the Oslo National Academy of the Arts. Her works have been exhibited at various institutions across Oslo, including Norsk Billedhoggerforening, Fotogalleriet, Kunsthall Oslo, Kunstnernes Hus, the Munch Museum and Oslo Runway.