Sese Wood and Aluminum Plated Dan Mask from Ghana 'Dan Festival' Item ID: 2671803671

"When I began working with you, the market for me in the beginning was very good. Though the sales are not so regular, I am able to make money to help solve some of the issues in my family. I started my carving workshop in Aburi, and I still work there, but in a well-furnished shop. Your support has helped in seeing my children through college, and I now have my own house. To a large extent, I have also now become the bread winner for my family.

"I used to use only an antique finish, but I have now learned all sorts of ways to finish my masks and wood carvings. I have also trained four people to finish wooden pieces. With you, life has been very fruitful, and I thank you."

Original Artisan Story

"I was born in Eastern Ghana. In secondary school, I studied business management and graduated in 1980. I worked for some time after school and then furthered my education by studying business for another two years. After my Advanced Level, I secured a job and worked for a while, but then stopped to find a vocation on my own, as the work I was doing wasn't satisfying. However, my cousin who is a carver and a professional teacher introduced to the carving profession. He trained me for about a year and I had not much difficulty. I then started a full-time professional carving career and have been carving on my own ever since.

"I also learned how to decorate my work with brass and beads, making them unique. I paint them sometimes and I am most inspired at times by my works. They are different and attractive."