Nigerian-American artist Temi Coker has unveiled a new home collection inspired by his Nigerian heritage, now available at Walmart. This initiative aims to create heirloom-quality pieces that celebrate cultural identity and accessibility. Coker, originally from Lagos and currently residing in Dallas, designed the collection with the intention of honoring both his African roots and his wife’s African American background.
“My children are the product of two cultures—African and African American,” Coker stated. “I wanted to create heirlooms that celebrate the beauty in that duality.” The collection includes a variety of items such as vases, pillows, throws, and rugs, with prices ranging from under $13 to $320. Coker emphasized the importance of the living room as a family gathering space, stating, “I designed these pieces to live in that sacred space and be accessible to every family.”
Designs Reflect Cultural Heritage
The vases in Coker’s collection feature textured surfaces that pay homage to the intricate hairstyles central to Black culture. He articulated that these pieces are meant to carry “memory, tradition, and culture into tomorrow.” Several of the vases are produced using 3D printing technology in the U.S., allowing Coker to refine his designs to closely match his vision.
The vibrant color palette, which includes shades like grass green, teal blue, warm red, and black, reflects the lively culture of Nigeria. Coker noted that these designs resonate with modern American homes, where families from diverse backgrounds create their own traditions and remember their heritage.
Coker’s partnership with Walmart is significant, as he aims to make these culturally infused products accessible to a wide audience. “This isn’t luxury for the few, but legacy made accessible to all,” he remarked. He also shared a personal connection to Walmart, recalling that his first pair of shoes was purchased there, reinforcing the importance of this partnership for him and his community.
Commitment to Diversity and Accessibility
The collection was launched on October 17, 2023, and reflects Walmart’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with diverse creators. The company aims to provide home decor that resonates with the communities it serves while remaining budget-friendly. Creighton Kiper, Senior Vice President of Home at Walmart U.S., remarked, “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.”
Temi Coker is recognized for his bold, Afrofuturist-inspired work, celebrating Black culture and contemporary identity. His designs combine striking colors, geometric patterns, and cultural symbolism. Coker has collaborated with notable brands such as Google, Nike, Netflix, Adobe, and The New York Times. His creative contributions have earned him accolades from prestigious institutions like the Type Directors Club and the Society of Illustrators.
The collection is now available for purchase, allowing a broader audience to appreciate Coker’s artistic vision while enhancing their home spaces with culturally significant decor. For more information and to explore the collection, visit Walmart’s website.
