Indigo in Benin supports artistic and cultural heritage
In Benin, indigo is more than a fabric—it plays a key role in artistic creation, the transmission of traditional knowledge, and the preservation of cultural heritage. On October 24, 2026, the brand Couleur Indigo, led by Nadia Adanlé, presented its 19th collection, "Apusomè," at Indigo Village, a center dedicated to indigo production and cultural tourism.New collection draws from marine themes
The "Apusomè" collection features 16 motifs inspired by marine environments, including fish, shells, octopuses, jellyfish, turtles, and corals. Each design carries symbolic meaning, reflecting both natural elements and historical narratives tied to the sea.Symbolism honors historical memory
One motif, called "Filimi," means "Remember me" and was inspired by the Atlantic Ocean, which Nadia Adanlé described as the world's largest cemetery due to its tragic history of the transatlantic slave trade. She explained that the fabric serves as a tribute to those who died at sea without graves.Couleur Indigo seeks to revive indigo’s legacy
Nadia Adanlé aims to make indigo a symbol of creation, memory, and cultural transmission. She is working to elevate the fabric’s status, focusing on quality, prestige, and innovation to move it beyond its current state of decline.Government supports cultural tourism initiative
Coline-Lee Toumson-Venite, in charge of arts, culture, and creative industries at the presidency, praised Nadia’s efforts in developing indigo as a key resource for cultural and creative tourism in Benin. This momentum will continue in November 2026 with the fifth edition of the African Indigo Symposium, themed "Indigo and Plural Arts, Performative Dialogue and Hybrid Practices."
