Nigerian designer Nifemi Marcus-Bello received a Special Mention at the 2025 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize for his work, TM Bench with Bowl. The award was presented by architect Patricia Urquiola during a ceremony at Madrid’s Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. This recognition highlights Marcus-Bello’s innovative approach to contemporary African design and sustainability
510 x 1120 x 400 mm
Recycled aluminium. Image courtesy of Loewe Foundation
Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Nifemi Marcus-Bello aims to develop a design language that captures the essence of contemporary African life. “It takes a village. But in my case, it takes a city,” he says, reflecting on the influence of his environment. Inspired by the experience of buying a second-hand car, he began reusing industrial waste to create bold, sculptural pieces that take the form of furniture. Through this process, he transforms discarded materials into objects with renewed meaning and lasting value.
Part artwork, part social commentary, and part archive, TM Bench with Bowl highlights how the value and use of mass-produced materials constantly change.
510 x 1120 x 400 mm
Recycled aluminium. Image courtesy of Loewe Foundation
The jury praised the work’s simplicity and strength, noting its quiet yet powerful commentary on consumerism. Marcus-Bello’s design language aims to reflect contemporary African life, revitalizing industrial detritus into bold, functional art.
The 2025 LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize exhibition features 30 finalists selected from over 4,600 submissions across 133 countries. The exhibition is open to the public at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum in Madrid until June 29, 2025.
Marcus-Bello’s recognition at this prestigious event underscores the importance of sustainability and cultural storytelling in contemporary design. His work continues to inspire discussions on the evolving role of craftsmanship in addressing global issues.
