Incorporating African Elements into Home or Office Decor

[Yusef Crowder]

Celebrate African heritage and culture through home and office decor with African design and accent pieces. African masks and statues are traditional favorites. For innovation, try an Ahnk lamp (an Egyptian symbol of life) or “Akua’ba” lamp (fertility doll used by the Ashanti). Chests, tables, or various wall hangings with Adinkra symbols, make interesting and attractive conversation pieces. The Asante peoples of Ghana and the Ivory Coast use these symbols. A large collection of pictograms, they express a number of ideas, practices, and beliefs. African stools utilizing the symbols are versatile as seating, or tables, with a glass top.

Mudcloth, from Mali, draped over a sofa or chair brings an exciting design element to any home or office décor. Each piece of mudcloth has a story to tell. The symbols, and the way in which they are arranged, as well as the color and shape of the mudcloth, reveal a variety of different secrets.

Tjiwara (Antelope) is from the Bambara Tribe of Mali. In hopes to increase the crop yield the headdress is worn by society members while dancing in their fields at sowing time. These statues make an impressive statement on a mantle or table.

The Senufo, a group of people living in northern Cote d'Ivoire and Mali, craft a unique and comfortable chair that offers support for the upper back and strengthens the thighs. It can be designed with a variety of African symbols, images, or scenes. All pieces can be customized.

For these and other original, one-of-a-kind, decorative accessories reflecting African culture and heritage, visit Wood Is Wonderful Gallery.
http://www.woodiswonderfulgallery.com/.