Brown and Black African Sese Wood Mask from Ghana 'Tall Tsotsologa' Item ID: 2671806447

My name is Paul Ababisa and I was born in Accra. Originally my parents are from the Upper East region of Ghana. They migrated to Accra because of the call of duty on my Dad's job. He was a soldier, and a very disciplined man. I also learned this trait from my Dad. I have 4 other siblings, and I am the second born of my parents. It was my eldest brother who had a little schooling; the rest of us were not allowed to go to school. We were asked to go into farming because my dad had a maize plantation in Accra. He also had cattle, which we reared. For fifteen years I tended to the cattle and did the farming as well.

Later I went to live with my elder brother, who knew how to carve. He taught me the craft, and when I mastered the craft of carving, my brother and I traveled around Ghana working on different art projects. I saved a little money from proceeds my brother paid me. I acquired my own shop and started to carve on my own. I produce figures and masks. Operating my own shop wasn't easy; I had financial challenges, but I lingered on. I never gave up. My inspiration is based on the way I view the world.

I have a lovely son and daughter whom I cherish so much, and I hope to give them the best in life by making sure they reach their full potential. My dream is to one day go back to my hometown to promote art.