Fragments d'ivoire
Prize(s):
Honorable Mention 2026 Print & Digital / Sign and Exhibit
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Kra Aminata Carine Sori
Design Team / Other designer(s):NDIENANG DAPABKO MESMER/ BIKEDI MBONGUI YELA JOVIN
Construction Company:African Art Awake
Client Name:KAYDAN REAL EASTATE
Photo Credit:Carine SORI
Project Location:Côte d'Ivoire, Grand-Bassam
Design Status:Completed
Website: View
Video URL:View
Project Description:
Fragments d’Ivoire is an artistic renovation and urban revitalization initiative that transforms an ordinary housing complex fence into a medium for expressing identity and culture. From a lifeless element emerges a defining work of art, revitalizing the landscape and reinvigorating the connection between the space and its users. Inspired by Akan and Bwa heritage, the murals are based on the stylization of primary forms, rendered in relief through the working of concrete, where the material captures light and reveals depth. The mask becomes a celebration of diversity, inviting reflection on the multifaceted nature of human and urban identity. The colorful backgrounds embody optimism and open-mindedness. Created with natural pigments, the work is part of a sustainable approach, enhanced by a protective varnish. Fragments d’Ivoire does more than restore : the work reveals and brings together, reminding us that we are fragments of the same culture, united in diversity.
Fragments d’Ivoire is an artistic renovation and urban revitalization initiative that transforms an ordinary housing complex fence into a medium for expressing identity and culture. From a lifeless element emerges a defining work of art, revitalizing the landscape and reinvigorating the connection between the space and its users. Inspired by Akan and Bwa heritage, the murals are based on the stylization of primary forms, rendered in relief through the working of concrete, where the material captures light and reveals depth. The mask becomes a celebration of diversity, inviting reflection on the multifaceted nature of human and urban identity. The colorful backgrounds embody optimism and open-mindedness. Created with natural pigments, the work is part of a sustainable approach, enhanced by a protective varnish. Fragments d’Ivoire does more than restore : the work reveals and brings together, reminding us that we are fragments of the same culture, united in diversity.
Project Innovation / Specification:
Fragments d’Ivoire stands out as an innovation project at the intersection of art, architecture, and urban renewal. The innovation lies first and foremost in its concept, which transforms an ordinary housing complex fence into a medium for artistic expression and identity, going beyond simple renovation to offer a sensitive and cultural interpretation of the space. It is also evident in the choice of materials, with the use of natural pigments, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative suited to the local context. This approach anchors the project in an environmentally respectful framework while promoting natural resources. Finally, Fragments d’Ivoire positions itself as a pioneering initiative in Côte d’Ivoire, introducing a new way of engaging with everyday urban spaces. The project thus paves the way for innovative practices where art becomes a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and social cohesion.
Fragments d’Ivoire stands out as an innovation project at the intersection of art, architecture, and urban renewal. The innovation lies first and foremost in its concept, which transforms an ordinary housing complex fence into a medium for artistic expression and identity, going beyond simple renovation to offer a sensitive and cultural interpretation of the space. It is also evident in the choice of materials, with the use of natural pigments, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative suited to the local context. This approach anchors the project in an environmentally respectful framework while promoting natural resources. Finally, Fragments d’Ivoire positions itself as a pioneering initiative in Côte d’Ivoire, introducing a new way of engaging with everyday urban spaces. The project thus paves the way for innovative practices where art becomes a catalyst for transformation, empowerment, and social cohesion.
Project Sustainability Approach:
Fragments d’Ivoire’s sustainability approach is based on a careful selection of materials and techniques that ensure the artwork’s longevity in the face of climatic and urban challenges. The surface treatment is designed to withstand the elements particularly rain—as well as external damage, ensuring that colors and forms remain stable over time. The use of natural pigments anchors the project in an environmentally conscious approach, minimizing its ecological impact while promoting local resources. The protective coating, applied using a protective resin, reinforces this durability by safeguarding the murals from fading and wear. The project is built on the pillars of sustainability: environmental, through responsible choices; social, by fostering connections and a sense of belonging; and economic, through a long-lasting installation requiring minimal maintenance. Fragments d’Ivoire thus offers a sustainable, sensitive, and tailored response to contemporary urban realities.
Fragments d’Ivoire’s sustainability approach is based on a careful selection of materials and techniques that ensure the artwork’s longevity in the face of climatic and urban challenges. The surface treatment is designed to withstand the elements particularly rain—as well as external damage, ensuring that colors and forms remain stable over time. The use of natural pigments anchors the project in an environmentally conscious approach, minimizing its ecological impact while promoting local resources. The protective coating, applied using a protective resin, reinforces this durability by safeguarding the murals from fading and wear. The project is built on the pillars of sustainability: environmental, through responsible choices; social, by fostering connections and a sense of belonging; and economic, through a long-lasting installation requiring minimal maintenance. Fragments d’Ivoire thus offers a sustainable, sensitive, and tailored response to contemporary urban realities.
Local and Regional Impacts of the Project:
The project has helped revitalize the neighborhood’s image, transforming an ordinary space into a valued place that is a source of pride for residents. It is based on an inclusive approach, employing young people from the area and beyond, thereby fostering the transfer of skills. Every detail is engraved by hand, without machines, highlighting authentic craftsmanship. Beyond aesthetics, the impact is also emotional: the murals evoke joy and calm, offering a true visual therapy. On a broader scale, the project inspires new approaches to urban intervention in Côte d’Ivoire, positioning art as a catalyst for social, cultural, and territorial transformation.
The project has helped revitalize the neighborhood’s image, transforming an ordinary space into a valued place that is a source of pride for residents. It is based on an inclusive approach, employing young people from the area and beyond, thereby fostering the transfer of skills. Every detail is engraved by hand, without machines, highlighting authentic craftsmanship. Beyond aesthetics, the impact is also emotional: the murals evoke joy and calm, offering a true visual therapy. On a broader scale, the project inspires new approaches to urban intervention in Côte d’Ivoire, positioning art as a catalyst for social, cultural, and territorial transformation.
Lead Designer(s) Name(s):Kra Aminata Carine Sori
