artistry in wood

Inspired by the American comic book villain synonymous with Africanfuturism following its recent success in theatres, Ghanaian artist Philip Dankwa explores the future of his continent, expressing his visions in this original mask. Dankwa carves sese wood and forms a beard from raffia palm fiber to achieve the shape of his mask, painting and weathering the surface to create its rustic finish.

Jaifah Aksornsri invokes the presence of Huang, the mythological bird of east Asia that reigns over all other birds. Originally there was a male version too, Feng which later was fused with Huang and therefore became known as Fenghuang, a female entity to be paired with the Chinese dragon. Together they augur a blissful marriage as they represent husband and wife. Fenghuang is known in the West as the Chinese phoenix and she symbolizes the concept of yin and yang, as well as high virtue and grace. Fenghuang's beauty is captured with magnificent artistry in this hand-carved rain tree wood sculpture. Includes an iron stand.

The handle on this walking stick is fiercely held between the jaws of a mighty denkyem (crocodile), in a design of powerful artistry by Eva Asantewa Amakye. The decorative walking stick is carved by hand of sese wood and painted black to enhance the dramatic effect of the design.

Many African societies regard a person with a walking stick with respect and dignity. Usually associated with age, an elderly person using a walking stick is believed to have accumulated vast knowledge and wisdom through the years. Traditionally, the design on a walking stick tells the societal status and political inclination of the person using it.

An incredible feat of acrobacy is transformed into a decorative walking stick of admirable artistry. Eva Asantewa Amakye designs this stunning walking stick in the shape of a woman bending at a 90°degree angle to form the handle while reaching out to a man. His long legs are intertwined giving shape to the stick. Meaning "lady" in the Twi dialect of the Akan people, the "Aketesia" walking stick is carved by hand of sese wood and decorated with embossed aluminum.

Many African societies regard a person with a walking stick with respect and dignity. Usually associated with age, an elderly person using a walking stick is believed to have accumulated vast knowledge and wisdom through the years. Traditionally, the design on a walking stick tells the societal status and political inclination of the person using it.

Powerful and beautiful, Naga the dragon and Garuda the eagle symbolize vigorous spirits to the Balinese people. Seji Taram transforms suar wood into an exquisitely detailed panel as he carves it by hand with absolute artistic mastery. According to one of the many Balinese Hindu-Buddhist customs, the dragon represents the relationship between kings and priests, and effigies of the mystical creature are included for their cremation, for it is believed Naga will guide their soul so they may find their way to the next world.