From Magazine to Cultural Vanguard
Launched in 2017 via Kickstarter by founder Mike Nicholls, Umber has evolved from a magazine into a groundbreaking media platform, leading a cultural movement through storytelling. Independently releasing print publications and hosting transformative activations, our team of editors, writers, photographers, and videographers curates content that shapes and reflects the nuances of culture globally.
Photography: Kevin Allen
Originally envisioned as a graphic journal for creative thinkers, Umber now thrives as a collective of tastemakers, cultural shapers, and movement-builders redefining how we engage with the world. It meets the demand for media that represents the depth of narratives from Black, Indigenous, Latin American, African, Asian, Arabic, Pacific Islander, and other communities of color.
Umber sets the standard for innovative, intersectional storytelling, bringing together readers and contributors who share a passion for shaping the future of culture. We cultivate authentic worldviews and spark creative inspiration, attracting socially conscious individuals who actively influence culture, style, and innovation.
Souls of Mischief - 2019 at de Young Museum, San Francisco
Photography: John Crisp
With over 100 contributors spanning Armenia, Amsterdam, Brazil, Chile, China, Copenhagen, Guadeloupe, Lebanon, London, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Sudan, Switzerland, and beyond, Umber highlights the thought leaders and cultural innovators who are reimagining our collective futures, such as:
Apache Skateboards, Armand Hammer, Ashara Ekundayo, Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah, Deanna Van Buren, Edgar Villanueva, Amos Kennedy Jr., Mani Draper, MAVI, Niema Jordan, Saul Williams, Souls of Mischief, Thalma De Freitas, Thomas Pridgen, Tonya Rapley, and many more.
Team
Adria Bani, Charles Brack, Nia Coats, Iris M. Crawford, Monika Jo, Sean Johnson, sasha kelley, Josephine Lee, Shah Noor, Louis Rawlins
Our Partners Over the Years
Mike Nicholls
Founder & CEO
Mike Nicholls is an award-winning Oakland-based creative director, visual artist, and media maker with over 20 years of experience. His work has been recognized by AfroTech, PRINT Magazine, and other leading outlets. Mike collaborates with global thought leaders, visionary organizations, and regularly speaks at events such as CreativeMornings, SF Design Week, and The State of Black Design.
Learn more about Mike here.
Photography: McKayla Chandler
Public Speaking
Inspire and educate through impactful talks led by Mike Nicholls, founder and CEO of Umber. Mike delivers keynote presentations that showcase his expertise in design, culture-building, and storytelling, offering tailored insights and inspiration for your audience. He also participates in panel discussions, fireside chats, and moderated conversations, bringing thought leadership and engaging perspectives to every event.
Mike has spoke at events such as: AIGA Midwest Design Week, The State of Black Design and Hue Design Summit