Straw
Part two of the Ghanaian Handicraft series.
Straw weaving is not a craft normally associated with the environs of Kumasi. Mostly that honor belongs to the far northern town of Bolgatanga. (Say that word. Say it now. And enjoy how delightful it is to hear.) But we wanted to get a sense of the craft and it turns out that the actual raw material (the straw) is cheaper nearer to Kumasi. So some small artisans have sprung up.
It's the simplest craft we've observed. The most serene too. A single artisan with a bunch of straw strands, some dyed, sets out and weaves the object in mind. No tools; the very definition of handicraft and skill.
It's a family affair in the small villages that produce straw-woven goods. Everyone seemed so damn happy, just weaving away. They know what they are doing, how to do it, and why they're doing it. It was inspirational, in a way.
More straw-weaving video here.
Posted on July 30, 2008 to the category called Africa Ghanaian Handicraft .
Comments
John,
I'm loving the photos and videos. Incredible stuff and a great window into a world most people have never, nor will ever see.
thanks for sharing and keep it coming.
- Adam
Posted by: adam christensen at July 30, 2008 8:38 PM
