Artist’s Vibrant Timepiece Collection Inspires Creativity and Aspirations
There are numerous terms to characterize Yinka Ilori’s design philosophy, but “vibrant” likely ranks among the most fitting. The artist’s latest partnership with Swiss brand MB&F exemplifies this definition impeccably, capturing the striking colors and whimsical shapes that have become synonymous with his work. Designed for MB&F’s M.A.D.Editions collection, Ilori’s *Grow Your Dreams* series reinvents the wristwatch as not merely a functional item, but as a thrilling statement accessory.
“Nature has consistently been a realm where I find both freedom and creativity. It provides me the opportunity to envision and let my imagination flourish,” the British-Nigerian designer shares with My Modern Met. “That sentiment greatly influenced *Grow Your Dreams*.”
This inspiration is clearly reflected throughout the series. Each watch features motifs like monstera leaves, trees, and other organic designs, all of which are distributed across their faces, bands, and dials. For Ilori, these natural themes serve more than just aesthetic purposes; they also represent the journey of dreams as they transition from minute seeds to grand blossoms.
“The concept behind the collection is that our dreams resemble seeds. They require nurturing, belief, and time to develop,” Ilori articulates. “You’ll see this notion reflected in the designs, with little touches such as leaves and trees. They symbolize growth, hope, and potential.”
In their cheerful color schemes and dynamic patterns, *Grow Your Dreams* harmoniously aligns with Ilori’s earlier works. Considering his former collaborations and stylistic preferences, it’s almost astonishing that these are the very first watches he has crafted.
“Creating a watch was entirely new territory for me, as I typically engage in larger projects, so transitioning to something this small and detailed was quite a shift,” Ilori mentions. “The challenge was figuring out how to convey a narrative in such a compact area, but that’s precisely what made it enjoyable.”
*Grow Your Dreams* is loaded with unexpected and clever features. The collection’s name is subtly etched on the dials, with the crowns adorned with three inward-facing leaves. Each unique colorway is as elaborate as it is deliberate, boasting playful nuances even in the watch’s most obscure and minor aspects.
“I appreciate them all for various reasons,” Ilori expresses regarding the watch colorways. “However, if I had to select, I’m inherently inclined towards warmer shades, so the red design certainly stands out to me. There’s a boldness and optimism about it that truly resonates with the collection’s essence.”
Above all, Ilori aspires for his watches to serve as a perfect metaphor for the time it often takes to realize dreams. That’s exactly why he believes they are worth the wait.
“Dreams don’t materialize instantly. They require nurturing, patience, and faith,” he stresses. “This collection encompasses that entire journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Ideally, when individuals wear these pieces, it reminds them to persevere and continue investing energy into what truly matters to them.”
Yinka Ilori’s new watch collection, *Grow Your Dreams*, flawlessly embodies the designer’s lively aesthetic.
A collaboration with Swiss brand MB&F, *Grow Your Dreams* illustrates how, like a seed, dreams require time to develop and flourish.
**Yinka Ilori:** [Website](https://yinkailori.com/) | [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/yinka_ilori/?hl=en)
**MB&F:** [Website](https://www.mbandf.com/) | [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mbandf/)
*My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Yinka Ilori Studio and MB&F.*
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