Abake Oke (he/she) is a scientist turned artist who’s spiritual and creative practice lies in the tangible. She is a Nigerian-Acadian costume designer and community seamster/ress that leads with reciprocity and care as a direct resistance to an industry that exploits black and brown people. Àbákẹ́ contends with his current reality of living in a dystopian era by scavenging for and trading materials that would otherwise be part of the overwhelming waste that the western world produces. Àbákẹ́ creates with natural fibers and upcycled materials (often acquired by thrifting or dumpster-diving), to create uniquely tailored garments, burlesque and drag costumes.