Soapstone/wood carving is a key part of Kenyan culture

Animals, humans, masks, images from nature, and elaborate designs and patterns are just some of the subjects hand-carved into not just masks but figurines, as well as bowls, spoons, cups, and other household items. The Akamba tribe has a longstanding reputation as some of Kenya’s finest woodworkers and carvers, and the Island of Lamu is the hub of coastal carving, where Bajun tribal members are said to have inspired Arab artists to produce a distinctive fusion of styles. Meanwhile, some ethnic groups, such as the Kisii of the Tabaka Hills in the west, specialize in carving figurines and other objects in soapstone (pictured here), which is composed of compressed talc. And you don’t even have to go far afield to find handmade treasures, many city markets - and even hotels in Nairobi and elsewhere offer traditional woodwork for sale.

Read more in Tripatini contributor Dan Kariuki´s post A Look at the Traditional Arts and Crafts of Kenya.

 

Linda De Volder

 

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