Silver Charms from Thailand and Bali sold in the USA support the Asian silversmiths who make them, and the US designers who incorporate them into their own jewelry. Through our Micro-loan program, they also support creative endeavors in Africa. Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo is a mask carver in Ghana who recently received a loan from us. She designs the masks one by one and decorates them with paint, recycled glass, beads, brass and other materials.
“I sit and draw the mask creatively, and come up with the colors that will make it stand out. I’m also good at observing nature and this comes to bear when I have to sit and come up with designs after the mask has been carved. Although my masks have cultural references, I try to enhance the looks. In Ghana, mask are seen to have spiritual beliefs attached to them, so most people wouldn’t like to even hold them. But with the new coloring and designs, people are now comfortable with masks and are ready to learn more about the history associated with them.”
Ahianyo may not realize it but she has a lot in common with mask carvers in Bali who have their own village, Mas. I used to love sitting with friends while they painted their masks with intricate designs. I tried a few myself and made a total mess of it!
Ahianyo’s masks are for sale at Novica.
Loving that mask!
Comment by Diamond Jewelry — September 29, 2011 @ 9:42 am