Concept Illustrations for Black Panther Inspired Editorial Shoot, Victoria Falls

Editorial Concept Illustrations-Luxe African Weddings

CREDITS

CREATIVE DIRECTION & PLANNING

Love From Mwai

PROJECT MANAGER

Lonah Shawa

PHOTOGRAPHER

Stepan Vrzala

ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER

Eva Tarnok

VIDEO

Viktor Kovachev Of Made to Reminisce

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PROJECT DETAILS

I had the incredible opportunity to create concept illustrations for a ground-breaking production planned and creatively directed by Love from Mwai. This awe-inspiring editorial, with breath-taking photography by Stepan Vrzala and Eva Tarnok, was inspired by the legacy of the late Chadwick Boseman, who played the superhero Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It also celebrated the beauty of African landscapes and cultures.

When Mwai contacted me to be a part of this project, I was thrilled to contribute my expertise through concept illustrations that would visually communicate the essence of her vision.

Mwai had a clear idea of what she wanted but trusted me to translate her creative ideas into a visual format that could be used as a guide for her production team and to showcase the concept to the magazine editor. After an extensive discussion, I began working on the concept illustrations, ensuring to capture the soul of the production, which sought to also highlight Africa as a premier wedding destination.

This production was an editorial plus cover on Nubian Bride Mag

I started by sketching each concept in pencil, followed by detailed watercolour paintings. The process was both meticulous and rewarding, as I worked without any reference images—no editorial shoot like this had ever been done before. It was a challenge to visualise something entirely new, but I knew the significance this shoot held for showcasing Africa’s beauty on a global stage.

From the stunning sunrise ceremony to the enchanting marriage blessing at Angels Pool, Victoria Falls, I created several scene concepts that captured the traditional African wedding experience. Mwai’s reaction to the final concepts was truly rewarding—she was thrilled with how accurately I had translated her vision into artwork. These illustrations ultimately served as a visual guide for her production team, helping the shoot’s extraordinary essence come to life.

Filmed in Livingstone, Zambia, the shoot took place in some of the region’s most iconic locations, including The Gorge, Angels Pool, Tongabezi, and the majestic Victoria Falls. The shoot was a magnificent celebration of Africa’s diverse heritage, brought to life by the vision of Mwai, who gathered forty African tribesmen and women dressed in custom-made traditional attire to create a scene as real and authentic as it gets.

Stationery for a Black Panther Inspired Editorial

Wedding Stationery for Outdoor Vibrant Wedding at Boutique Resort in Zambia

I have been working with Rosey for the last four years and she always brings to light the visions that I have for my brand. She is an absolute pleasure to work with, she has a magical eye for detail that I sometimes describe as “Witchcraft”. She is funny, patient and consistent, and I can’t thank her enough for giving my brands a “facelift”!

It is a blessing to work and continue to work with her, she puts a lot of soul and passion into all of the work that she does, from designing my latest luxury coffee table book to all the branding and client projects she has designed. I can’t recommend her enough!

MWAI—LOVE FROM MWAI

Black Panther Inspired Editorial Shoot, Victoria Falls

The shoot also featured a breath-taking series of African bridal portraiture, each highlighting the unique beauty and traditions of various African cultures. Set against the stunning backdrop of Victoria Falls at The Royal Livingstone Resort, these bridal looks included: The Nigerian Bride, The Kenyan Bride, The Ngoni Bride, The South African/Zulu Bride, and The Ghanaian Bride.

Each portrait showcased the rich diversity of bridal customs across Africa, blending traditional elements with the majestic natural setting for a truly awe-inspiring visual narrative.