Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo

African masks

"My ability to work with masks is inborn, and my greatest inspiration is to preserve our rich cultu... read more

1 review

Empowering Women The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women. Caring for Children This artist supports children under the age of 18. Job Creator This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people. Moving On Up This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA. Preserving Traditions This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive. Profound Impact Every purchase from this artist has a profound impact on their livelihood and income. Microcredit Financing Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo has received 9 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $900 and the most recent for $1000. Proceeds were used to invest in a purchase of wood, metal plates and paints to increase production.

Facilitated by

West Africa Artisan Empowerment Hub

The traditional arts are a vibrant aspect of every ... about

Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo

"My ability to work with masks is inborn, and my greatest inspiration is to preserve our rich cultural heritage.

"I'm Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo, born in Accra on September 12, 1965. I have two sisters and a brother.

"My masks are unique because I use my knowledge in design with each one. Initially, I wasn't using lots of different materials, but now I use recycled glass and glass beads, aluminum, brass and more.

"I sit and draw the mask creatively, and come up with the colors that will make it stand out. I'm also good at observing nature and this comes to bear when I have to sit and come up with designs after the mask has been carved.

"Although my masks have cultural references, I try to enhance the looks. In Ghana, mask are seen to have spiritual beliefs attached to them, so most people wouldn't like to even hold them. But with the new coloring and designs, people are now comfortable with masks and are ready to learn more about the history associated with them."

West 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.

Maker BadgeEmpowering Women

The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women.

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

Evelyn Kafui Ahianyo has received 9 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $900 and the most recent for $1000. Proceeds were used to invest in a purchase of wood, metal plates and paints to increase production.

24 items