Taofeek Abijako Integrates Daughter into Studio Life

Designer Taofeek Abijako, founder of Head of State, integrates his young daughter into his sunlit studio, transforming the creative space into a collaborative environment. Abijako describes his studio as a personal playground where his daughter's uninhibited contributions, such as adding crayon drawings to his fashion renders, spark his design process. He believes that children possess a natural creative curiosity that he seeks to emulate, and his daughter's presence helps to bring this out, reminding him of freedom and the absence of rigid guidelines. This philosophy of play, family, and curiosity shapes his design ethos, emphasizing a lack of rigidity in his work.

Abijako views his creative process as being akin to a child's exploration, a sentiment amplified by his daughter's involvement. He notes that having her around encourages this freedom, likening it to an unconstrained canvas. This approach underscores his belief that genuine creativity often emerges from a state of uninhibited exploration. The dynamic between fatherhood and a demanding creative career necessitates tools and objects that can fluidly transition between these different spheres without requiring adaptation. Abijako highlights the red Target bag as such an item, describing it as a ubiquitous object whose utility is instinctively understood and seamlessly integrated into his daily life.

The red Target bag serves as a practical and versatile carryall, fitting naturally within the context of both high-end garments and professional studio equipment. Its presence, whether hanging from a clothing rack or resting on a sofa, anchors the daily routine of a parent balancing a creative profession. Abijako emphasizes that when his daughter accompanies him to the studio, he packs essential items, underscoring the bag's role as a reliable carrier for these necessities. The bag's inherent functionality and widespread recognition make it an effortless companion for Abijako as he navigates the dual demands of his role as a designer and a father, embodying a seamless blend of personal and professional life.