Presenting Nicole Nomsa Moyo's Installation For Miami Design District

Toronto-based designer Nicole Nomsa Moyo is taking part in Miami Art week 2024 with a series of interactive sculptures inspired by jewellery such as bracelets, necklaces and large earrings from the Ndebele tribe of South Africa. The installations, named Pearl Jam, are spread across the central Palm Court in the Miami Design District and those in Miami Beach. The occasion also marks the tenth edition of the Annual Design Commission, previously awarded to designer Lara Bohinc and Chilean studio GT2P. Pearl Jam is one of several large-scale installations and exhibitions on display during Miami Art Week 2024.

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

As you can see, the installation consists of large aluminium ‘beads’ and jewellery scattered over 1,000 bead earrings hanging from the trees, which are handmade by Ndebele women artisans. Some visitors saw the installation as a tribute to their culture, which includes precious objects and concepts of what it means to be a woman. The Ndebele traditionally express themselves through clothing and necklaces, and the installation allows people from any culture to interact directly, from toddlers to adults. 

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

The installation is made of aluminium covered with various patterns ranging in height from 15 cm to 2 metres. It is clad in primary coloured tribal patterns using motifs inspired by the houses of the indigenous Ndebele people. Traditionally, Ndebele women are the architects, painting the houses with very bright and lively colours that make them feel warm, inviting and enhance the artwork. It is a symbol of culture, wealth and sustainable community. 

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)

Moyo worked with South African women industrial artisans to create most of the pieces and hand-painted the large semi-circular bracelet that sits in front of the Fly's Eye Dome designed by Buckminster Fuller. As for the spheres that hang amongst the trees, Moyo worked with over 50 women to create the pieces which feature geometric patterns in a range of primary and vibrant colours. The unique patterns created are also due to each hand making them differently. Moyo estimates that more than about 100,000 beads were used in creating the piece. The aim of the installation is to allow the public to engage with African art as opposed to American or European art, which are more common in the public realm. It also hopes to open up more opportunities for people to express African culture in the public sphere. 

Pearl Jam Installation by Nicole Nomsa Moyo (cr: Kris Tamburello)