Raphat Asigbey

Raphat Asigbey hand-carved African masks, sculptures and decor accents

"My name is Raphat Asigbey and I am a woodcarver. I was born in the Volta region of Ghana in 1981. My friends describe me as respectful, calm and hardworking. I became interested in this craft when I completed high school and was unable to further my education.

"I was taught by Daniel Quarcoo, a Novica-featured artisan. Starting out on my own was very difficult when I didn't have enough money to complete orders. I went through a hard time when I didn't receive enough work to support my family. I then worked for an exporter for a while, and later began participating in exhibitions.

"To master this art, I practiced crafting more unique designs.

"My favorite pieces are the Ashanti stools, or throne ottomans, which I craft with my own designs. My assistants now help me sand down the carvings and help with the finishing. I find it most challenging when depicting animals. My creative inspiration comes from dreams and the Bible.

"I hope to one day become a recognized artist worldwide and be able to help the poor in my community."

Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace

"I was taught by Daniel Quarcoo, a Novica-featured artisan. Starting out on my own was very difficult when I didn't have enough money to complete orders. I went through a hard time when I didn't receive enough work to support my family. I then worked for an exporter for a while, and later began participating in exhibitions.

"To master this art, I practiced crafting more unique designs.

"My favorite pieces are the Ashanti stools, or throne ottomans, which I craft with my own designs. My assistants now help me sand down the carvings and help with the finishing. I find it most challenging when depicting animals. My creative inspiration comes from dreams and the Bible.

"I hope to one day become a recognized artist worldwide and be able to help the poor in my community."

Africa Artisan Empowerment Hub

The traditional arts are a vibrant aspect of everyday life in West Africa. From richly intricate handwoven kente cloth fabrics, to intricately colorful beaded arts, ceremonial masks, and exquisite jewelry, to traditional throne-stools hand-carved for customers by the Ashanti king's actual chief carver, artisans proudly offer their region's finest handmade works of art.

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Maker BadgeCaring for Children

This artist supports children under the age of 18.

Maker BadgeJob Creator

This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.

Maker BadgeMoving On Up

This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.

Maker BadgePreserving Traditions

This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

Maker BadgeProfound Impact

Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income.

Maker BadgeMicrocredit Financing

Raphat Asigbey has received 2 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $150 and the most recent for $400.

The shelves are empty for now.Every piece Raphat Asigbey makes is one of a kind, and they've all found homes. Follow to be first to see the next collection. Follow Raphat Asigbey.

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6 Badges for Raphat Asigbey