Working with local artisans in Ghana, Victoria Agyepomaa designs this stunning mask that is hand carved from sese wood. The cheeks and forehead of the mask are covered with textured aluminum repoussé metalwork, which creates a lovely contrast against the hand-painted wood. A marigold adinkra symbol called hye wonnye sits at the center of the forehead, representing forgiveness. Adinkra symbols are believed to have their origin an ancient kingdom that once stood where Ivory Coast is today in West Africa. Victoria names her design nolwazi, which is a Zulu word meaning knowledgeable.

Product Features: 

• Dimension: 18.5" H x 6" W x 3.1" D
• Weight:  1.52
• Color: Multicolor
• Material: Sese wood, aluminum plate
• Intended as wall decor
• Features a rustic, rugged finish
• Hand-crafted item -- color, size and/or motif may vary slightly
• Made In Ghana

Story Behind the art:  

I am Victoria, a caring and an honest person who specializes in handcrafted arts. I live in the eastern region of Ghana where there is a vast land and each person is allowed to cultivate it. I started in this field in 2004 by selling calabash at the art center. My mum planted the gourds and I learned how to grow and prepare the calabashes.  I have been determined in life right from childhood. I did not receive much school education, but I don't allow that to limit me in life. I was later sent to live with my aunt in Accra and I brought calabashes to sell. I had a customer who ordered a lot of the calabashes to make kora guitars and this helped me to save.  I was focusing in lazy chairs and calabashes only. I got interested in crafts because I fell in love with the art and craft work when I realized how different items are made and the various designs we can come up with. I observed how artisans carved beautiful objects from wood and I learned. I did the painting and finishing.  Abdul Aziz, a Novica featured artist, taught me how to finish my work and now I have two apprentices. I had to be respectful and listen attentively to my teacher to help me learn fast. I use paints that are lead free but are somehow difficult to come by. I find it challenging when I craft new items that require new materials.  I get my inspiration from African traditions, and I donate to the orphanage home in my local community.  A difficult moment in my life was when I went to South Africa and was not able to make it there. But now I am happy I have found Novica. I have fun with my children because they make me laugh and I feel happy with the relationship we share.  My dream is to grow my business to be able to take care of my children, and I also would like to participate in more exhibitions.

Please   allow 10 business days for the product to leave our warehouse and to receive   tracking information. You should expect to receive this item within 15   business days.