Nobomi Life

The term "Nobomi" means "life" in xhosa, one of South Africa's official languages.  When the creator of the online retailer approached me to develop the brand and voice of the artisian jewelry line I knew we had to start with it’s origins. Most of the artisans are women and the profits are donated to children in the Open Arms Orphanage in South Africa. Focusing on these aspects of the line I began to develop visual identities that would represent the non-profit.

The first set focused on the balance between nature and humans, combining the African Tree with a silhouette a woman.

The second identity was inspired by African patterns. The bold colors aligned with the meaning of Nobomi and the organic shape mimicked the handmade jewelry.

The chosen design is comprised of African symbols. Through research I found four symbols that representing independence, wisdom, feminine virtue and overcoming barriers. Through the collaboration between myself and my client we focused on two themes, wisdom and overcoming barriers. Paired with an elegant serif font, the typeface complemented the intricate process and the pieces displayed.

Listening to my client’s needs and understanding her vision, Nobomi now has an identity that represents not only the line, but the artisans and the children who the non-profit supports.