Kauwri is a Nairobi-based Kenyan jewellery and accessories brand founded and led by Creative Director Victor Wathiong’o. The brand creates contemporary pieces that explore materiality, storytelling and African design through a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern forms.
Kauwri’s work is thoughtfully handcrafted in Nairobi, Kenya, in collaboration with a community of approximately 10 artisans, each bringing different areas of technical specialization to the production process. The brand works primarily with brass, with most pieces finished in 24k gold plating or chrome silver. Other materials used across its collections include cow horn, cow bone, cowrie shells, pearls, wood and semi-precious stones.
The brand’s approach is centered on experimentation with materials, craft and heritage. Rather than reproducing traditional African jewellery, Kauwri explores how familiar materials, symbols and techniques can be interpreted through contemporary jewellery and accessory design. The work draws from Kenyan and broader African cultural references while maintaining a modern, wearable approach.
Kauwri has released three collections: Celestial, Nam Ataro and Eros. Celestial explores forms and references inspired by elements of the celestial, while Nam Ataro takes its name from Dholuo, one of Kenya’s languages, where it refers to the sea. Eros explores themes of love, desire, vulnerability and human connection through sculptural forms and heart-inspired motifs.
For Tranoï Paris, Kauwri presents selected pieces from all three collections, offering an overview of the brand’s design development and material approach. The presentation includes jewellery and accessories designed and produced in Nairobi, with an emphasis on contemporary forms, African craft and material experimentation.
Kauwri is led by Victor Wathiong’o, a Kenyan designer whose practice developed through self-directed jewellery design. His work with Kauwri focuses on developing a contemporary African jewellery and accessories practice while creating sustained opportunities for skilled artisan production in Nairobi.
Pays
Kenya
