Know Thyself

Calendar


A tool of remembrance: timeless and alive

Time is more than just numbers in a grid. It is memory, movement, cycle.

The Know Thyself Calendar invites you to detach yourself from the rigid rhythm of meritocracy and immerse yourself in the flowing rhythms of nature, culture and identity. It is both a compass and a work of art - a companion that reminds you that we are cyclical beings, connected to something bigger than ourselves.

This calendar is a deliberately decolonial project. It combines planning with reflection and makes time tangible beyond linear notions of performance. Inspired by ancient knowledge, mythology, and cyclical structures, it invites you not only to organize your everyday life, but also to relate it to yourself and the world.

The calendar sees itself as a tool for self-empowerment: it reminds us of natural rhythms, strengthens well-being, and creates space for sovereignty in our own lives. Thus, a functional planning tool becomes a medium for empowerment, orientation, and a new narrative of time.

In addition to the content references, this claim is particularly evident visually: each artwork is carefully composed, directly and indirectly picking up on symbols and stories and creating collages in vibrant colors. They evoke collective associations, invite you to linger, and make the messages not only readable but also tangible.

Idea:

Experience time anew

The Know Thyself Calendar was the result of a personal search: I wanted to find an aesthetically strong calendar that not only showed beautiful artwork, but also made diversity visible. Since there was no such product according to my vision, I decided to develop a calendar myself.

Based on my many years of study of mythology, indigenous and ancient knowledge, I created a project that combines functionality, spirituality and aesthetics.

Concept

Know Thyself Calendar Distribution & Review Video

Philosophy

The calendar is African-based, but intended for everyone. It shows global parallels to other schools of thought and invites us to perceive patterns and connections instead of emphasizing differences. At its core is a new/old understanding of time:

  • Gregorian time: linear, mechanistic, performance-oriented - a rigid system that often forces people to bend unnaturally.

  • Cyclical time: organic, close to nature, creating identity - it reminds us that we are part of nature and integrated into larger rhythms

The calendar thus becomes a tool for self-empowerment: It strengthens the awareness of natural cycles and one's own anchoring in the collective system.

& Approach

Introductory workshop: decolonial structures & mythologies

Calendar launch event flyer "Spring Awakening"

Special features &

Design decisions

  • Each artwork tells a story: the energetic attributes and symbolism behind the months remain the same, while the visual interpretation is central and varies between editions. In this way, the same cycle is reinterpreted again and again.

  • Cultural embedding: African Union holidays, birthdays of key black figures (both historical and contemporary), and references to African traditions and astrological events make the calendar a cultural statement.

  • Educational potential: While aesthetics and independent resonance with the artworks are at the forefront, the KTC calendar also contains a wealth of historical information with modern relevance. The third edition is additionally accompanied by a self-produced audio guide, which offers in-depth information without detracting from the design.

Process

  • Research on ancient African and global knowledge systems

  • Conception and development of a calendar structure that integrates cosmic, cultural and personal rhythms

  • Design of the artwork and creation of all content

  • Print preparation and production

  • Distribution: from an idea for your own circle of friends to a product in public demand, including the development of a marketing platform

Know Thyself Calendar, Edition 2024

Results

& Impact

The calendar quickly attracted a great deal of interest beyond the personal circle. Lively discussions, an exchange of knowledge and collective remembrance work ensued.

The second edition in particular showed how strongly the community is behind the project. Many users use the calendar not only as a timetable, but also as a cultural and spiritual companion.

#Unboxing

Surprise unboxing from actress Denise Mbaye

Learnings

& Continuation

This project made me realize that a calendar is much more than just a timepiece; it can also serve as a cultural and political statement. We often don't think about the design and functionality of everyday objects simply because “it's always been that way,” regardless of whether it makes sense or is practical.

Working on the artworks has once again made it clear to me how powerful visual media are in making complex content and collective knowledge tangible.

The strong response from the community has confirmed to me that there is a real need for decolonial and cyclical perspectives. For the future, I plan to continue the project and incorporate additional layers such as audio elements in the third edition to make the experience even more immersive.

The KTC is my passion project, which I finance, conceive, design, market, and distribute 100% independently every year. Despite the extra workload this often entails, I enjoy creating it. I only have to think of the shining eyes, the many highly inspiring and progressive conversations, and I know it is absolutely worth the time and energy. It is such a powerful thought throughout the year that we all turn the page and reflect together on the first of the month. I am delighted to be able to contribute my part to conscious and connected living in this context and am excited about the future of the KTC.

Know Thyself Calendar, Edition 2025 Introductory Preface"& month “September“