Q&A with beauty influencer Mbali Sebokedi
Flowahh by Mbali is bringing book covers to life through creative make-up looks.
With a passion for literature and a flair for creativity, Mbali Sebokedi is making a name for herself with her incredible make-up looks that are inspired by book covers. Showcasing her unique talent and artistic expression, she’s bringing the beauty and literacy worlds together. Flowahh by Mbali is truly a blend of artistry and imagination, with Mbali’s keen eye for detail and passion for storytelling. We asked her about her inspirations, her creative process and her favourite books.
What sparked the idea to combine make-up artistry with book covers, and which book first inspired you?
It was during the Covid pandemic. I was doing my Honours in Literary Theory, and it was such a tough year because there was not much to do other than reading books and writing essays. And then I started picking up make-up as a moment to get away without getting away. I was inspired by the trend of “books as looks” and I began creating make-up looks based on book covers – the first book that inspired the looks was An American Marriage by Tayari Jones.
How do you choose which books to feature – what draws you to certain covers?
I don’t have a specific plan for what I read. I usually just pick up books randomly and create make-up looks based on their covers. I do gravitate towards pretty covers, but half the time the story is good as well. So, no real process of selection… It’s just random and it just works out!
What’s your reading routine like – how do you find time given you have a full-time job?
I live in Pretoria and my office is in Santon, so I squeeze in some reading time during my daily commute on the Gautrain. I also listen to audiobooks regularly while doing chores or cleaning the house.
What’s your favourite genre to recreate — romance, fantasy or something else?
I love African fiction, books written by black authors – and especially black women. About 95% of the books I feature are by black authors; the rest are by other authors from different backgrounds.
How do you balance staying true to the original book cover aesthetic while also adding your own personal twist?
I always try to mimic the colours at least. Sometimes I replicate the imagery on the cover, but half of the time there isn’t any really. In that case, I try to do something cool with the colours and shapes to be creative. I love adding a little pizzazz to the look!
Your favourite book-to-make-up transformation so far?
La Bastarda by Trifonia Melibea Obono — I think everything just matches the vibes of the book. And I was chuffed with how the flowers came out for If I Had Your Face by Frances Cha — they were stressing me out!
The most challenging book cover to recreate?
Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto, because I had to make sure the Japanese text was correct. It required extra attention to detail, but I nailed it.
What’s the next book cover you’re planning on recreating?
Sula by Toni Morrison.
What are you reading now?
The Fishermen by Chigozie Obioma and Three Echoes by Marina Auer.
Ever thought of writing your own book?
People have suggested that and I always say no. I enjoy the art of reading and analysing books. But like they say, ‘Never say never!’ So maybe one day I’ll consider writing, just not right now.
By:Emma Mbuthuma
Photography by: Supplied
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