Hand-Painted Dark Black and Brown African Sese Wood Mask 'Awurade Kasa' Item ID: 2671803985

“My name is Ransford Bediako. I was born in 1972 in Mampong, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. My craft is hand carved wood decor. My friends say that I’m a quiet and hardworking person, and that I’m very serious when it comes to my work.

“I come from a family with an artistic background. My dad is a carver, and so are my brothers. Growing up, I used to assist my dad with his work, and that is how I got interested in this craft. Meeting different buyers from all walks of life is what initially attracted me. It took dedication and constant practice to learn and master this art.

“I use sese wood, acrylic paint, and polish. I obtain all of these materials from the market and they are easy to work with. I work with my uncle; I do the carving, and he sandpapers. I get my inspiration from nature.

“Getting started on my own wasn’t easy at all. There was no ready market for this craft, which made it very financially challenging. Along the way, I had to put my carving business on hold and work on a farm to make ends meet. But now, things are better. I’m able to afford a better life for my children and feed them, and that makes me happy.”