Naki has made some good progress over the last few months in terms of securing artist collaborations. Derek Burchell-Burger is exceptionally happy with the Imperial College team and their contribution: “The Imperial College team provided an excellent foundation, infrastructure, and roadmap for our project”, he explains. While the original plan has been adjusted as a work-in-progress, things are progressing well, as the report was well-received and budget approval was obtained immediately.

Indeed, according to Derek, the original budget projections have proven to be mostly accurate.

As you may remember Derek initially  wanted to collaborate with 9 different artists but found that it was far more efficient to focus on 1 primary artist. They identified Michael Chandler, a well-established international artist based in Cape Town’s historial Bo-Kaap district, who agreed to collaborate with Naki on a profit-sharing basis. While Gaby remains in charge of art work for the Tier 1 and Tier 3 products, Michael Chandler is now taking on the Tier 2 range.

Going forward, Derek explains that the biggest challenge now remaining is outreach and market connections. To this end, an assistant was hired with an extensive background in history, film and art with gallery connections. The timeline has also had to be adjusted to accommodate working with one main artist.

Derek is now looking forward to continue with the established roadmap structure and prepare for market launch. He is looking forward to sharing project links and updates with the Imperial Team as soon as possible.
“This was the most positive group ever, and I am happy to have met with such exceptionally bright people. I feel stoked about the experience”, says Derek.