The Multi-disciplinary World of Ini Archibong: Whisky, Hip-Hop, and Collecting

"I realized that with it being a 'ghost' distillery [it ceased production four decades ago], there was a limited quantity of this coveted liquid. This made me see it in a more philosophical way - every drop that gets consumed is one less drop of Port Ellen whisky that exists. Period. From there, I stopped thinking about the collaboration from the terms of making something that was commissioned and more about making sure that everything that I create for Port Ellen recognizes its spiritual and mythological essence."

"Name an artistic medium and Ini Archibong has tried it: watch design, beverage packaging, music production, stonework, furniture design (although he is best known for his rippling sculptural glasswork). His collaborators are numerous. Among them is Hermès, for whom he created La Galop d'Hermès watch in 2019; Snoop Dogg, who recruited Archibong as creative director for his spirits brand, Gin & Juice; and Diageo and Sotheby's, with whom he worked on a bespoke whisky cask release."

Ini Archibong is a multidisciplinary artist known for sculptural glasswork who has collaborated with prestigious brands including Hermès, Diageo, and Sotheby's, as well as creative figures like Snoop Dogg. His work spans watch design, beverage packaging, music production, stonework, and furniture. Based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland for eleven years, Archibong approaches each project with philosophical depth. His largest work to date—a 7.5-foot cast bronze and glass sculpture—was installed at Port Ellen distillery in 2025 to commemorate the Islay whisky brand's 200th anniversary. Recognizing Port Ellen as a 'ghost' distillery with limited remaining stock, Archibong shifted his perspective from commissioned work to honoring the liquid's spiritual and mythological essence. Music plays an integral role in his creative process, informing both his design and production work.

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