THE 9601

9601 is the handcrafted, slow-made, contemporary label of Doanna Owano, a multidisciplinary neurodivergent creative based in Nairobi, Kenya. The label is art-in-wear. The design elements are bold, feminine, and fun, inspired by the female body, nature, and contemporary art and design. The brand’s silhouettes comprise a fine blend of organic and geometric shapes, with a playful sensibility applied to each piece. The 9601 muse is sensual and playful and unafraid to make a statement. Doanna is a self-taught metalsmith. Although she has always loved creating with her hands, her fascination with crafting jewelry started in 2017 when she watched a video of a woman fabricating a sterling silver ring from scratch. She loves creating sculptural, art-inspired earrings, thus her design process usually involves heavy experimentation with structure, form, and movement. Doanna has had many failed attempts at the label prior to her ADHD diagnosis in 2020. Because of this, she has chosen to employ a slower, more deliberate, and intentional approach to her life and art.