This role is for a junior creative and art designer who is first and foremost an artist: someone who sketches, paints, observes small details, and is deeply inspired by nature, wildlife, and African cultures. This position sits at the heart of Bobu Africa's craft and design work across all Afrika collection sub brands. You will be instrumental in turning ideas into marketable products, ranging from handcrafted items like soapstone pieces and baskets to illustration-led textiles, packaging, and art.
Key Responsibilities
Product and Craft Design
- Support the design and development of handcrafted products, such as:
- Soapstone pieces and painted finishes
- African-inspired décor items
- Basket and woven product designs
- Patterns for textiles, ceramics, wooden objects and other surfaces
- Translate sketches and concepts into finished, usable product ideas.
- Assist in basic product development steps: prototyping, testing, and refining designs.
- Explore and combine different materials and textures, drawing from African craft traditions and sustainable methods.
Artistic and Conceptual Work
- Produce hand-drawn sketches, illustrations, and paintings using pencil, ink, watercolour, or acrylics.
- Develop artwork for prints, packaging, brand collateral, and limited-edition pieces.
- Contribute to mood boards and themes for new collections, campaigns, and collaborations.
- Help visually tell the story of our brands and makers in a way that feels authentic and grounded in place.
Digital Illustration and Design
- Create polished digital illustrations that reflect Afrika Collection’s visual identity.
- Use (or be willing to learn) tools such as Procreate, Photoshop, Illustrator, or similar software.
- Prepare artwork for printing, engraving, embroidery, screen-printing, and digital platforms.
- Work with the wider team to adapt art for social media, lookbooks, catalogues, and the website.
Workshops, DIY and Studio Support
- Assist in planning and running creative workshops and DIY art sessions for children and adults (e.g. painting, simple craft, upcycling sessions).
- Guide participants through simple, fun activities in a calm and encouraging way.
- Help organise and maintain art materials, tools, and samples in the studio.
- Support documentation of workshops and projects (photos, short notes, simple visuals).
Candidate Profile (Who you are)
- A naturally creative person who loves drawing, painting, and experimenting with new techniques.
- Curious and observant—you notice patterns, colours, shadows, and small details in everyday life.
- Inspired by African cultures, landscapes, wildlife, and nature-led design.
- Passionate about sustainability, reuse, and making beautiful things that last.
- Kind, patient, and comfortable interacting with people in workshop or studio settings.
- Reliable, organised, and able to follow through on tasks with minimal supervision.
Required Qualification
A BA/BSc/HND qualification is required.