The Future of Archive – Expanding the Artist Project Beyond Cape Town
Following the success of Archive’s Artist Project first edition in Cape Town, featuring artist Ziyaad Samsodien and iconic footwear brand Grasshoppers, Archive is expanding the Archive Artist Project to major cities across South Africa. This aims to cultivate a diverse network of South African artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work and engage with a broader audience.
On 6 March 2025, Archive will present the second edition of the Artist Project, spotlighting visionary toy designer Sanele Qwabe, founder of Kind Kid Company. Known for his storytelling and innovative approach to design, Qwabe blends animation and toy artistry.
Archive A/W25 'Imagination Meets Creation'
Archive presents its AW/25 campaign and collection titled 'Imagination Meets Creation,' starring Sanele Qwabe from Kind Kid, launching on 6 March 2025. Drawing inspiration from timeless classic silhouettes and blending them with updated paisley prints, the collection is intended to be a playful take on everyday essential ready-to-wear pieces. This release will also include four limited-edition toys exclusively designed by Kind Kid and inspired by the collection’s colour Pantone, which will be released alongside the apparel. Both the collection and Qwabe’s toys will be available for purchase during the event.
This is about more than just fashion; it’s about bringing together brands and artists, drawing inspiration from diverse creatives and artworks. Through the Artist project, Archive continues to build a community that connects artists across different avenues, cultivating creativity and cultural storytelling.
An Artistic Experience
The in-store experience at Archive’s Cape Town location will include:
A life-size Kind Kid figure providing a striking centrepiece for visitors.
Exclusive toy sales, making Sanele’s work accessible to collectors and design enthusiasts.
An artist talk featuring a conversation between Sanele Qwabe and Anelisa Mangcu, hosted at the Café Counter.
An attendee Q&A session, where guests can engage with Sanele about his creative journey and artistic inspirations.
The Expansion of the Artist Project
As a hub for innovation and artistic expression, Archive is committed to long-term creative development. By broadening the reach of the Artist Project, the initiative will unite artists through a shared vision of storytelling, design, and craftsmanship. The expansion will roll out in phases, with new city editions launching throughout the year. Each edition will introduce exclusive showcases, collaborations, and curated events amplifying South African artistry. By nurturing local talent, Archive cements its role in shaping South Africa’s creative landscape, strengthening its position as a key player in the country’s evolving creative industry.
With this expansion in play, Archive is excited to announce the opening of a new store in Johannesburg at Fourways Mall on 15 March 2025. This will not only serve as a hub for artistic expression but also mark a step in Archive’s growth, expanding its presence into other cities across South Africa.
About Sanele Qwabe
Sanele Qwabe, a 29-year-old designer and founder of Kind Kid Company, from Richards Bay, channels his experiences growing up in a tight-knit coastal community into his toy designs, which blend art, nostalgia, and storytelling. Now based in Durban, Sanele utilises his background in Information Design from the University of Pretoria to craft pieces that go beyond traditional toys, they become cultural artefacts.
Through Kind Kid, Sanele brings childhood dreams to life, crafting collectable toys and artworks that explore themes of identity, memory, and imagination. His work has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including:
Art Square Gallery, Saint Petersburg, Russia (2024)
Good Neighbours x Capitec Handmade AFRICA, Nirox Sculpture Park, South Africa (2024)
Archive Introduces “The Artist Project”
An ode to South Africa’s creative landscape, the Artist Project sees the transformation of Archive’s physical and digital spaces into curated galleries. The Artist Project is more than a single event; it is an ongoing initiative dedicated to uplifting South African artists. Archive believes in creating a space where art meets commerce, allowing local talent to thrive and gain visibility locally and on international platforms.
First Thursday by Archive with Sanele Qwabe
Date: Thursday, 6 March 2025
Time: 17H00 - 21H00
Location: Archive Collective, 107 Bree Street, Cape Town
Tickets: Limited tickets via Quicket.
About Archive
Archive Collective isn’t just a store; it’s a community. It is a destination where art meets culture and local pride intersects with global heritage. It’s a space where the creative community can connect, collaborate, and discover the latest exclusive sneakers and premium streetwear.
