SoShiro Art Gallery: Shiro Muchiri’s Global Design Platform
people • artist
Founded by designer and creative director Shiro Muchiri, SoShiro is a collaborative platform, consultancy, event space, and shop that embraces and celebrates artistic and cultural diversity. SoShiro’s mission is to bring the richness of global art, design, and craftsmanship into the popular imagination in ways that are exciting, relevant, and mutually beneficial for all.
INSTAGRAM: @so.shiro website: soshiro.co
Words: designeers
october 2024
DESIGNEERS
What inspired you to create SoShiro, and how did your global background influence the vision for the gallery?
Shiro MUCHIRI
I was inspired to create SoShiro to explore how different cultures, and artistry can contribute to the contemporary design conversation. My background, which includes numerous opportunities to explore and live among various cultures, greatly influenced this mission. I discovered the power of connecting with different cultures through their art and creativity, which reveals our shared humanity.
DESIGNEERS
Can you tell us more about the significance of launching SoShiro during London Craft Week and why you chose the Ainu Collection as the debut exhibit?
Shiro MUCHIRI
London Craft Week attracts a diverse group of curious art lovers, and being part of this community of makers and collectors could help give our mission some visibility. The Ainu Collection, with its impressive heritage and intricate sculptural techniques, would be highly appreciated within the craft world.
DESIGNEERS
Your gallery merges art, craft, and design. How do you curate collections that balance these three elements while showcasing global cultural stories?
Shiro MUCHIRI
I have always believed that art, craft and design have a seamless connection in storytelling. The storytelling is what runs through all the pieces we curate and showcase together, and therefore a natural balance is struck purely by that.
DESIGNEERS
The Ainu Collection features collaborations with award-winning artisans like Toru Kaizawa. How do these collaborations come to life, and what excites you most about blending different craftsmanship techniques?
Shiro MUCHIRI
Collaborations come to life through the objects created and the inspiration behind them. It is exciting to see how design ideas, craft skills, and heritage combine to form contemporary pieces that resonate with modern lifestyles.
“I have always believed that art, craft and design have a seamless connection in storytelling.”
shiro muchiri
DESIGNEERS
SoShiro acts as both a gallery and an event space. How do you envision the gallery evolving as a cultural hub for design, collaboration, and creativity?
Shiro MUCHIRI
My vision for SoShiro is to continue introducing new ideas that are meaningful, exciting, and rich in culture and storytelling. Everything we do is grounded in a human story, leading to dynamic explorations of how to create memorable experiences through extraordinary collaborations that are educational, progressive, and fun!
DESIGNEERS
What are your goals for future exhibits at SoShiro? Are there any upcoming collections or collaborations you’re particularly excited about?
Shiro MUCHIRI
At the end of this year, in mid-November, we will host an exciting festive-themed show featuring gifting pieces that bring stories from all over the world to our space. This event will offer a unique selection for those seeking meaningful gifts to share with friends and family.
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