Nigerian-American artist Temi Coker has launched a culturally inspired home collection through a partnership with Walmart, making his designs accessible to a broader audience. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and now based in Dallas, Coker aims to create heirloom pieces that celebrate both African and African American heritage.
Coker’s collection includes a variety of items such as vases, pillows, throws, and rugs, priced between less than $13 and $320. He emphasizes that the living room, often regarded as the heart of the home, is where family memories are made. “I designed these pieces to live in that sacred space and be accessible to every family,” he stated.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The collection showcases vases with textured surfaces inspired by the intricate patterns of braids and hairstyles central to Black culture. Coker explains that as his wife carried their children, these pieces symbolize the transmission of “memory, tradition, and culture into tomorrow.” Several of the vases are 3D printed and manufactured in the U.S., allowing Coker to refine his designs until they matched his vision.
The vibrant colors of the collection, including grass green, teal blue, warm red, and black, reflect the lively culture of Nigeria while appealing to modern American homes. Coker notes that these pieces speak to the diverse backgrounds of families who are creating their own traditions and ways to honor their origins.
Partnership with Walmart
Coker views his collaboration with Walmart as a significant step in ensuring that meaningful designs reach families of all budgets. He remarked, “This isn’t luxury for the few, but legacy made accessible to all.” He also expressed personal significance in partnering with Walmart, stating that his first pair of shoes came from the retailer, highlighting its importance in his community.
The launch of Coker’s collection represents Walmart’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with diverse creators, offering customers designs that mirror the communities they serve. Walmart’s Creighton Kiper, Senior Vice President of Home, stated, “We’re on a journey to democratize style, and our new Temi Coker collection is an exciting opportunity to bring his authentic perspective and bold, beautiful designs exclusively to Walmart customers.”
Coker, known for his vibrant, Afrofuturist-inspired work, has built a reputation as a visual artist and designer. His distinctive style blends bold colors, geometric patterns, and cultural symbolism, appealing to a wide range of clients, including Google, Nike, Netflix, Adobe, and The New York Times. His work has garnered accolades from prominent organizations like the Type Directors Club and the Society of Illustrators.
The collection launched on March 15, 2024, and is available for viewing on Walmart’s website. Coker’s designs not only enrich home decor but also serve as a celebration of cultural heritage, making them a meaningful addition to any household.
