Cameroon shields, with their rich cultural heritage and intricate designs, have emerged as captivating pieces of art that seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics. These unique shields, crafted originally for protection and symbolism, have found a new purpose as striking elements in home decor.
Unveiling the Beauty of Cameroon Shields
Cameroon shields, deeply rooted in African history, boast diverse shapes, colors, and patterns. Traditionally made from wood and adorned with vibrant pigments, these shields were used by various ethnic groups for ceremonial purposes, reflecting the rich culture of the region.
Transforming Tradition into Contemporary Elegance
In the realm of home decor, Cameroon shields transcend their historical significance, evolving into versatile and stylish pieces that enhance modern living spaces. The bold geometric patterns and earthy tones make them an excellent choice for those seeking to infuse their homes with a touch of authenticity.
Beaded Cameroon Shield with Cowrie Shells
Our Beaded Cameroon Shield is a great way to add character to a shelf, table, or office. This shield showcases a cowrie center and edging. They are hand-carved from one piece of wood by the Tikar tribe of Cameroon, making each shield unique. The shields are adorned with a combination of glass beads, cowrie shells, and manilla string.
Traditionally, these shields were used as defensive weapons, decor, or ritual objects symbolizing status and wealth.
No matter your design or color preference, these artisanal wall pieces are, without a doubt, conversation points in any space. Comes ready to be hung.
Beaded Cameroon Umbrella Shield
Our Beaded Cameroon Shield Umbrella is the perfect addition to any room.
Wood Cowrie Shells and Beads Cameroon Shield
Enhance your home with our Hand Carved Wood Cowrie Shell Shield with Beads. The shield features authentic shells and white beads that are hand-carved from one piece of wood by the Tikar tribe of Cameroon, which makes each shield unique.
Brass and Cowrie Shell Cameroon Shield
Our Brass Cameroon Shield with cowrie shells showcases a cowrie center with distinctive edging.
Enhance your home with our beautiful, authentic Cowrie Shell Shield. Adorned with cowrie shells, it takes 3 days to make one small shield.
Wooden Natural Cameroon Shield | Manilla Panel Design with Cowrie Edge
Our Wooden Natural Cameroon Shield with Cowrie Shells showcases cowrie shells throughout the wooden shield hand carved from one piece of wood by the Tikar tribe of Cameroon.
Incorporating Cameroon Shields into Your Decor
Shop Our Cameroon Shields for a Touch of Tradition
Elevate your home decor with our curated collection of Cameroon shields; each piece is handpicked to showcase the authenticity and craftsmanship of these cultural treasures. By bringing these shields into your space, you infuse your home with history and support preserving traditional art forms.
Cameroon shields are artifacts and statements of cultural identity and timeless beauty.
Embrace the fusion of tradition and modernity by incorporating these shields into your home decor.
Visit LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY and discover a curated selection that invites you to embark on a journey of cultural exploration within the confines of your own living space. Transform your home into a haven of elegance and meaning with the allure of Cameroon shields.
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The holiday season is fast approaching, and it's the perfect time to spread joy and love through thoughtful gifts. If you're looking for unique and ethically sourced presents, look no further than Luangisa African Gallery. This holiday gift guide will inspire you with a curated selection of items that reflect the rich cultural heritage and artistic flair of Africa. From exquisite homeware to vibrant fashion accessories, there's something for everyone on your gift list!
Bring the magic of Africa into your loved ones' homes with our handcrafted African home decor items. Consider gifting a beautifully crafted Beaded Cameroon Shield, a colorful Beaded Leather pillow Cover, or a Beaded Mirror. These unique and eye-catching pieces will add a touch of African flavor to any living space.
2. African Artwork:
Art lovers will appreciate a piece of African artwork that tells a story and captures the essence of the continent's diverse cultures. Consider gifting a vibrant painting depicting the Maasai Warrior Sunset Scene, an intricate Beaded Wall Art, or a Makonde Sculpture. Each piece of art is not only visually captivating but also a conversation starter.
For fashion-forward friends and family, surprise them with stylish accessories that showcase African craftsmanship. Our store features a range of fashion accessories, such as Tie-Dye Head Wraps, Basket bags, statement necklaces, and bold African-inspired prints. These items not only elevate an outfit but also celebrate the beauty of African heritage.
Support fair trade and sustainability by gifting ethically made fashion accessories. Our Sokoni Recycled Plastic Market Bag is not only fashionable but also promotes ethical and environmentally conscious practices.
Make the little ones in your life smile with unique gifts that celebrate African culture. Consider cute hand puppets representing native African wildlife. These gifts will inspire curiosity and a love for diverse cultures.
This holiday season, go beyond traditional gift-giving and choose presents with meaning and cultural significance. By shopping at LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY, you'll not only support local artisans but also celebrate the beauty and richness of African heritage. From handcrafted home decor to fashion accessories with an African flair, our store has something for everyone.
Embrace the spirit of giving and surprise your loved ones with unique and ethical gifts that will be cherished for years to come.
Happy holidays from LUANGISA!
Visit www.luangisa.com for the full range of products.
]]>African baskets are more than just containers; they are a manifestation of artistry passed down through generations. Crafted with meticulous precision, each basket tells a unique story of culture, tradition, and skilled hands at work. The art of basket weaving in Africa is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of communities, with distinct styles and techniques varying across regions.
The brilliance of African basketry lies in the diversity of materials used. From the sturdy and rustic look of sisal to the vibrant hues of dyed grasses, the array of materials contributes to the aesthetic appeal of these handmade creations. The weaving process itself is a labor-intensive and intricate dance of patterns, resulting in pieces that are not only functional but also visually captivating.
One cannot speak of African baskets without acknowledging their inherent beauty. These handmade creations are not just containers; they are pieces of functional art that bring a touch of elegance to any space. From market baskets with bold geometric patterns to intricately woven storage baskets adorned with symbolic motifs, the range of designs is as vast as the continent itself.
The beauty of these handmade African baskets lies in their versatility. They effortlessly transition from utilitarian items for carrying goods to stunning decorative pieces that enhance the visual appeal of any room. Placing a collection of these baskets on a wall or using them as centerpieces can instantly infuse a space with a sense of cultural richness and aesthetic charm.
The digital age has brought the brilliance of African basketry to a global audience, allowing enthusiasts and collectors to buy these exquisite creations online. The convenience of online platforms has not only made these handmade treasures more accessible but has also empowered artisans by providing them with a broader market.
When you choose to buy African baskets online, you open a door to a world of craftsmanship that transcends geographical boundaries. Platforms dedicated to showcasing African handicrafts bring together buyers and artisans, creating a bridge that supports the continuation of traditional craft while providing livelihoods for talented individuals. Purchasing African baskets online is not just a transaction; it is a celebration of cultural heritage and a commitment to sustaining a craft that has stood the test of time.
As we conclude our exploration of the brilliance of African baskets, consider immersing yourself in the curated collection offered by Luangisa African Gallery. Our gallery is a testament to the enduring allure of African craftsmanship, featuring a diverse array of beautiful handmade African baskets that capture the essence of tradition and artistry.
Explore our collection of African Wall Baskets, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans. Elevate your space with the timeless charm of African Wall Décor Baskets, each piece telling a unique story of tradition and craftsmanship. Adorn your walls with Hand African Wall Baskets, blending authenticity and beauty in every weave. Discover the perfect synergy of style and heritage with our curated selection of African Baskets for Wall – a celebration of craftsmanship that transcends borders.
These textured baskets bring dimension and beauty to blank walls. Hang them individually or in multiples for a vibrant burst of functional art that enhances your decor. These baskets promise to add a pop of textural charm to your surroundings.
At Luangisa African Gallery, we take pride in preserving cultural heritage by providing a platform for artisans to showcase their brilliance. Each basket in our collection is a masterpiece that reflects the skill, dedication, and creativity of its maker. Buy African baskets online with confidence, knowing that you are not just acquiring a functional item but a piece of cultural brilliance that has been crafted with love and tradition.
In embracing African baskets, you invite not just a functional item into your home but a piece of cultural brilliance that transcends time and space. Explore the world of these beautiful handmade creations, and let the artistry and tradition of African basketry weave their way into your heart and home.
]]>African furniture is a testament to the diverse cultures and traditions found across the continent. Each piece tells a story, intricately woven with symbols, patterns, and materials that have deep-rooted significance. From the warm tones of mahogany to the intricate carvings inspired by nature, every detail in African furniture reflects a connection to heritage.
One of the remarkable aspects of African-style furniture is its ability to seamlessly integrate into a variety of design styles. Whether your home boasts a modern, minimalist aesthetic or embraces a more eclectic and bohemian vibe, African furniture adds a touch of authenticity and sophistication that transcends design boundaries.
African-style furniture exudes a timeless quality that defies fleeting trends. The elegance of clean lines, coupled with the warmth of rich wood tones, creates a harmonious balance that resonates with both tradition and modernity.
Consider incorporating a handcrafted wooden coffee table with intricate geometric patterns or a set of chairs and ottomans adorned with traditional African textiles or beads to infuse your space with a sense of character and depth.
The versatility of African furniture allows you to curate a living space that reflects your personal style while celebrating the craftsmanship and artistic heritage of Africa. It's not just furniture; it's a cultural statement that elevates your home to a realm of enduring beauty.
As the allure of African-style furniture continues to grow, it's essential to understand how to make informed choices when purchasing these pieces. When seeking to bring the timeless beauty of African furniture into your home, consider the following:
Authenticity Matters: Look for pieces crafted by skilled artisans who uphold traditional techniques. Authentic African-style furniture carries a unique charm that comes from the hands of those who have mastered their craft over generations.
Materials Tell a Story: Pay attention to the materials used. Many African-style furniture pieces showcase the richness of local woods, such as teak, mahogany, or ebony. These materials not only contribute to the durability of the furniture but also carry cultural significance.
Embrace Diversity: African furniture is not a monolith; it encompasses a vast array of styles inspired by different regions and cultures. Explore the diversity within African design to find pieces that resonate with your personal taste and reflect the story you want to tell in your living space.
For those seeking to infuse their homes with the timeless allure of African-style furniture, Luangisa African Gallery stands as a beacon of authenticity and excellence. Our gallery is a curated collection of handpicked pieces that embody the spirit of African craftsmanship. From intricately carved sculptures to elegantly designed furniture, each item at Luangisa African Gallery tells a story of tradition, artistry, and cultural richness.
Luangisa presents exclusive handmade Beaded Yoruba chairs, adorned with thousands of beads and crafted by the Yoruba people of Nigeria. Each chair, a unique functional work of art, reflects traditional royalty and takes over 4 months to create. Sold as a set of two, these chairs are a distinctive addition to any space.
Enhance your design space with the captivating intricacies of woven chairs, sparking engaging conversations. Each piece stands as a unique work of art, making it a distinctive addition to both indoor and outdoor settings.
Discover the transformative power of African furniture at Luangisa African Gallery, where every piece is a masterpiece waiting to elevate your space. Purchase African-style furniture with confidence, knowing that each item has been carefully selected to bring the timeless allure of African design into your home.
The timeless allure of African-style furniture goes beyond mere decor; it is an invitation to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the continent. Elevate your space with pieces that carry stories of tradition and craftsmanship, and let the enduring beauty of African furniture become a cornerstone of your home's design.
]]>African Home Décor Products encapsulate a diverse and captivating range of items that showcase the continent's rich cultural heritage. From intricately designed furniture to bold and vibrant textiles, each piece tells a story deeply rooted in tradition. The use of earthy tones, geometric patterns, and symbolic motifs creates a unique and visually stimulating atmosphere within the home.
Modern African Home Décor Accessories seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary design elements. These accessories serve as focal points in a room, adding a touch of sophistication and cultural richness. Consider incorporating sleek wooden sculptures, modernized tribal masks, or abstract paintings inspired by African landscapes and portraits to infuse your space with a fresh and unique aesthetic.
One notable example is the fusion of traditional wooden lamps and beadwork into contemporary lighting fixtures. Beaded chandeliers, pendant lights, Mud Cloth, Kuba Lampshades, and African lamps not only illuminate a space but also serve as stunning art pieces. This modern interpretation of traditional craftsmanship bridges the gap between heritage and modernity, creating a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of African design.
African Decorative Accessories play a pivotal role in transforming a house into a home. From intricately carved figurines to handwoven baskets, these accessories bring warmth and personality to any space. Incorporating items such as beaded cushions, mud cloth throws, kuba wall hangings or intricately carved wooden bowls can add texture and depth to your home decor.
For a bold statement, consider adorning your walls with a collection of African masks. These symbolic pieces not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also carry cultural significance. Each mask tells a unique story, making it a conversation starter and a captivating focal point within your living space.
One of the key attractions of African Home Décor Products is their ability to seamlessly integrate into various design styles. Whether you prefer minimalist, eclectic, or bohemian interiors, there is an abundance of African-inspired elements that can complement and enhance your chosen aesthetic.
Mixing traditional African textiles with modern furniture, for instance, can create a harmonious blend of old and new. Incorporate Kente cloth or mud cloth into throw pillows, upholstery, or even wall hangings to infuse your space with the vibrancy and authenticity of African design.
As we conclude our exploration of the rich palette of African Home Décor Products, it's worth noting the distinctive offerings of Luangisa African Gallery. Specializing in curating a diverse collection of Modern African Home Décor Accessories and African Decorative Accessories, Luangisa African Gallery brings a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the world of interior design.
At Luangisa African Gallery, every piece is carefully selected to showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of African design. From contemporary furniture inspired by traditional forms to handcrafted decorative items that tell stories of heritage, the gallery offers a curated selection for those seeking to infuse their living spaces with the rich and authentic spirit of Africa.
African Home Décor Products, particularly Modern African Home Décor Accessories, and African Decorative Accessories, provide an opportunity to elevate your home with a unique and culturally rich aesthetic. The fusion of tradition and modernity, as exemplified by Luangisa African Gallery, invites you to embark on a journey of design that is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful. Explore the diverse palette of African Home Décor, and let your living spaces reflect the beauty of a continent's artistic heritage.
]]>Tanzania, a land of breathtaking landscapes, warm-hearted people, and diverse ethnic groups, is a treasure trove of cultural wonders. Tanzania's heritage tells captivating tales from the majestic Maasai warriors to the graceful Swahili culture.
Taste of Tanzania, an enchanting celebration of Tanzanian culture, scheduled for August 5th, 2023, aims to bring Tanzania's vibrant spirit, rich traditions, and exquisite flavors to Westchester. Luangisa African Gallery sponsors this eagerly anticipated event to benefit the Luangisa African Museum and Cultural Arts Center. It promises to transport attendees on a sensory journey through this East African nation's diverse landscapes, rich traditions, and delicious cuisine.
On Saturday, August 5th, in Westchester, Taste of Tanzania invites everyone to immerse themselves in a country's sights, sounds, and tastes teeming with natural beauty and cultural diversity. This family-friendly event will showcase Tanzania's vibrant traditions through a captivating array of activities, fashion showcases, performances, and mouthwatering culinary delights.
Entertainment
The event will begin with a breathtaking opening ceremony featuring traditional Tanzanian music and a live dancing and drumming performance. Tanzania's music and dance will undoubtedly get your feet tapping! From the high-energy beats of Bongo Flava to the graceful moves of traditional Ngoma dances, the rhythm of Tanzania will leave you captivated and craving more.
Cuisine
The true star of the event will undoubtedly be the tantalizing Tanzanian cuisine. Sample the distinctive flavors of Tanzania by indulging in traditional dishes such as Pilau, Chapati, and the renowned grilled Mishkaki! Every bite will take you on a culinary adventure, showcasing the unique blend of African, Indian, and Arab influences that make Tanzanian food so distinctive and delightful.
Fashion Showcase
The colorful Maasai people are renowned for their distinctive dress and jewelry. Their vibrant shukas and intricate beadwork reflect their proud nomadic lifestyle and deep-rooted connection with nature. The fashion showcase will focus exclusively on featuring and promoting Tanzanian fashion styles and ethnic attires like the Tanzanian Maasai Shuka, Kangas, and Kitenges. The Kangas and Kitenges are the fabrics of Tanzanian culture.
Pop-Up Shop: The LUANGISA Market
Throughout the event, guests can explore and shop unique items from the Luangisa African Gallery pop-up shop. The shop will provide a glimpse of Tanzania's rich artisanal crafts, vibrant fabrics, traditional jewelry, and more!
Don't miss this exciting chance to experience Tanzania's sights, sounds, and tastes. Join us at Taste of Tanzania on the 5thof August and embark on a cultural journey that will leave you inspired and hungry for more.
Click HERE to get your tickets now.
For more information and updates, please visit www.luangisa.com. Stay connected through YouTube and Instagram @luangisa to stay informed about the latest news, event highlights, and special announcements.
Taste of Tanzania
Presented by: Luangisa African Gallery
Location: Westchester, New York
Date: Saturday, August 5th
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Join the celebration of Tanzanian culture on the 5th of August in Westchester. Doors open at 6 pm.
See you there!
]]>Once looked down upon as clothes for peasants, Mud cloth transcended its rural roots while still being attached to it and transformed into a cultural symbol in Africa.
Its traditional make, simplistic design, and cultural significance have penetrated the edges of the landlocked country of Mali - and have continued to influence designers all over the globe.
Painted using real mud, mud cloth has humble origins. Its origins are underpinned by a story of family, hope, survival, status, and a sense of community that strengthens Africans today.
Read as we dive deep into this cloth’s rich history, significance, and how the simplistic designs have become more complex over time - but without forgetting the traditions.
The origin of the Mud Cloth can be traced back to 12th century Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa. Traditionally, the hunters wore the Mud Cloth as ritual protection and as a badge of status, while the women wore the fabric as a wrapper immediately after childbirth as it is believed to have the power to absorb pain and deflect anything harmful or dangerous.
The fabric gets its name from a Mali ethnic word, “Bogolanfini.” Bogolanfini is made up of three words: Bogo, meaning “earth” or “mud,” lan, which means “with,” and fini, which translates to “cloth.”
Today, the durable, functional, and multi-faceted fabric is used in various ways, from fashion to stylish furniture upholstery and home décor, such as pillows or cushion covers, interior drapes, throws, runners, and wall hangings adorning personal homes and office spaces. The Mud Cloth remains a popular way to add texture and pattern to an outfit or a room.
THE MAKING OF THE AFRICAN MUD CLOTH
The Bambara people of Mali place so much cultural importance on the weaving and dying process of the Mudcloth. The cotton used for mud cloth is locally grown and of an undyed, yellowish-beige natural color.
Traditionally, thin strips of plain fabric are weaved into squares that are then stitched together. The final product is then dyed in a bath of leaves and branches, which is essential in the dying process. The purpose of the pre-bath in leaves and branches is to bind the dye to the fabric.
The traditional method included men weaving cotton fabric into small blocks. These blocks were stitched together and dyed in a bath of leaves and branches.
The cloth was then sun dried before a pattern was painted using a different shade of mud. Next, the undyed areas are treated with a bleaching agent to distinguish between the unpainted and painted regions and to give the fabric a crisp look. Finally, the clothes were left to dry under the sun for a week before being washed. And in the end, we got an immaculate white pattern with a dark background.
However, the modern method was borne out of the demand for more patterns and shades of mud. As a result, the latest paradigm became more versatile. First, it involves dying the cloth with different kinds of tree leaf solution. The designers then painted white and black patterns over the fabric.
This “modern” method still hasn’t forgotten the original, rural roots of the mud cloth, further highlighting the cultural significance of this illusive and simple fabric.
The designs on the mud cloth are used to represent social status, proverbs, or historical events.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE MUD CLOTH PATTERNS
While this cloth’s rich and simple patterns accentuate modesty, the regional use of this fabric is different. Hunters have worn it to protect themselves and doubled as a badge of status. Women wrap themselves with Mud cloth soon after giving birth, believing the fabric will absorb negative feelings. And for the longest time, it has helped mothers deal with stress.
What makes mud cloth unique, however, isn’t only how it is made but also what the symbols represent. Every symbol is special, with varied, contextual meanings. But with years and the realization of the cultural significance behind this fabric, people deciphered some of them.
The current writing system came to Africa much later, and for a long time, people relied on ancient Meroitic, Tifinagh, Ge’ez, and others to express themselves. And for the common folk, music and art were the forms of communication.
Therefore, it can be said that these symbols could represent rhythm. But on the other hand, wavy patterns with different intensities can mean different things. Traditionally, the meaning of these symbols was revealed by mothers to their daughters. So, while we contemplate what hidden mysteries accentuate these simple patterns, the true meaning remains elusive.
Also, with time and love for the sheer aesthetic authenticity of mud cloth, people started to pay little mind to the meanings behind these symbols - although their novelty is still valuable.
Like the twirl symbol, it signifies life and has found its way into the designs of many renowned cloth manufacturers.
MUD CLOTH PATTERNS AND THEIR MEANINGS
This pattern represents the flower of the calabash.
This pattern represents the spindle.
This pattern represents good fortune.
This pattern depicts wealth and luxury.
This pattern depicts a bed of bamboo and millet leaves.
This pattern represents courage, bravery, & fearlessness.
Mud cloth has persisted for nearly a century and continues to stand against the headwinds of time with its simplistic-yet- breathtaking designs.
Every pattern has a story, every color is rooted deep in history, and every fabric has been sun-kissed for the vivid colors to set in properly.
We at Luangisa are on a mission to showcase to the world the rich African heritage through art and culture and the cloth that drapes across many of them – which is Mud cloth.
At Luangisa African Gallery, we offer several African Mud Cloth products handmade by Malian Artisans in a variety of colors including Indigo, Mustard, Brown, Multi Color, White, and Black.
To get your very own Mud Cloth product crafted in Mali, see our collection of Unique Mud Cloth textile, pilot covers, messenger bag, lampshade, blankets, wall art, etc at Luangisa.
Below are some pictures of our mud cloth products.
]]>LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY AT NY NOW
Join us at NY NOW Winter Market.
Shop Luangisa African Gallery at America’s favorite marketplace, NY Now! Browse through the handmade goods by African Artisans and learn the story behind our brand. Our commitment to African artisans as well as sustainable, fine quality, beautiful, and eclectic products will make for a delightful shopping experience.
Tour Africa through our trendy handmade products that tell a story and impact the lives of hundreds of people from around Africa. You are sure to find some unique, one-of-a-kind, haven’t-seen-it-anywhere products from home goods, artwork, jewelry, and more.
Luangisa African Gallery is excited to welcome shoppers to the Luangisa African Gallery BOOTH 333 at the NY NOW Winter Market.
At Luangisa, we offer high-quality hand-crafted products created by some of Africa’s most talented artisans.
Browse and shop a carefully selected collection of artisan-made goods, including Home Décor, Art, Handcrafts, Jewelry, and Fashion.
LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY AT NY NOW
HANDMADE PRODUCTS
Experience what’s new from Luangisa African Gallery at the NY NOW Winter Market. All are Handmade by African Artisans.
BEADED CAMEROON SHEILD OCTAGON DESIGN
BEADED WALL DISPLAY
CAMEROON SHEILD
CANVAS PRINT
JUA MALAWI WALL ART
*MALAWI HANDWOVEN BAMBOO BLACK FURNITURE CHAIRS, TABLE, and LOVE SEAT
MALAWI JUA MIRROR NATURAL
MALAWIAN WOVEN CHANGING TRAY FOR BABIES
MALAWIAN WOVEN CALABASH
NDEBELE BEADED DOLL
NGUNI HEAD ON STAND
TONGA BUHERA NATURAL BASKET VASE
TONGA GARLIC GOURD BASKETS
TONGA TABLE
YORUBA BEADED CHAIR
ZAMBIA DOUBLE WEAVE TONGA PATTERN BASKETS
ZAMBIA TONGA PAINTED BASKETS
AND MANY MORE!
Luangisa African Gallery at NY NOW Winter Market is the most rewarding and enjoyable place to shop high-quality Artisan Made products from all around Africa.
This year’s NY NOW Winter Market will take place from February 5-8, 2023, at the JAVITS CENTER.
LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY AT NY NOW WINTER MARKET
Handmade Booth 333
Use our promo code for complimentary access!
PROMO CODE: EXIV862067
CLICK HERE LINK TO REGISTER
Visit us in BOOTH 333.
See you at the NY NOW Winter Market!
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Gifting season is in full swing, and choosing gifts for your loved ones can be challenging; luckily, Luangisa African Gallery has a curated assortment of unique and bespoke handmade items you can choose from.
To help you with your search, we have rounded up our top picks that will bring lots of joy to your loved ones. Shop the gift guide.
Happy Shopping!
GIFT GUIDE
Game night just got way more traditional, thanks to Luangisa. Gift this African hand-carved one-of-a-kind chess piece to an art lover this holiday. The dark pieces are made of 100% Mozambique ebony wood, and the lighter chess pieces are made of teak wood. These full-size chess gaming pieces are sold without the board.
Namji Dolls are beautiful and cultural and make excellent gifts. Made by the Namji tribe in Cameroon, these dolls will add a touch of culture to any loved one’s mantle, table, or shelf. Shop a wide variety of styles, sizes, and colors in our collection.
For a gift that’s subtle yet still makes an impact, consider the Tanzanian Whistle. Handmade by artisans in Dodoma, Tanzania, and made out of Jacaranda wood, the whistle makes a great loud sound typical of Africa. It is an excellent gift for children, teachers, and law enforcement. It can be strung at the bottom to be worn around the neck.
Coasters serve a practical purpose, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish. Take these hand-beaded coaster set that looks like little pieces of art. Hand-beaded by Zimbabwe Artisans using multi-colored glass beads, each piece has unique characteristics. Available in a variety of colors. They make for a great holiday gift.
Any home décor lover on your list will appreciate these Cameroon Shields. The design will make a major statement in any space, whether on a dining room table or nightstand.
Handmade by women artisans in Rwanda, the Kigali Baskets are functional and practical. This multipurpose basket can be used for serving but can also be a wall decoration or a catchall for whatever you please.
Handmade in South Africa, it is a stunner of a gift for the jewelry aficionado in your life. These beaded geometric dotted earrings with tassels come in different colors and designs.
Wakanda Multi Strand Brass Necklace with Africa Pendant
Beautiful bold multi-strand brass choker necklace with a map of Africa pendant is handmade by Kenyan artisans. Choosing this necklace is a great way to give your loved one a gift that allows them to show off their fashion sense and love for the African culture.
Apron Kitenge Patch, Oven Mitts & Pot Holder Kitenge Patch
Got someone who loves to cook on your hands? Well then, this Kitenge kit is the perfect gift to ensure they look stylish while making their favorite dishes.
Mini Laughing Masks Christmas Ornaments
Gift your friend or relative the ability to decorate their Christmas Tree with these mini laughing Masks. Handcrafted in Tanzania, these ornaments are unique and authentic holiday décor.
Made from 100% ebony wood from Tanzania, the Kwanzaa Kinara is the perfect gift for a friend who celebrates the seven principles of African culture in style.
Send a faith-filled gift this year. This candle holder is great as a gift for a unique way to say happy holidays!
Perfect for any kid on your list, these puppets will let their imaginations soar. Made in Tanzania out of colorful Kanga textiles, they come in an array of brilliant colors and elaborate patterns.
The home-décor lover on your list will love this beautiful and colorful handmade beaded wall art. Handmade by women artisans in South Africa, this one-of-a-kind wall art is easy on the eyes and not too bad on the wallet.
Maasai Mini Bucket Bag with Beaded Handle
Crafted from 100% Tanzanian leather sourced from a family-owned tannery in Tanzania, the Maasai Mini Bucket Bag is a superb choice for anyone looking to style up their outfit with a chic accessory. Available in various colors.
Made out of elephant grass by artisan weavers in Ghana, the Hand Woven Dog Bed is a fantastic choice for a friend with a special four-legged friend.
Made in Benin, this sculpture i beautifully handcrafted from the lost wax technique. It is a novelty gift, a rustic art piece that makes the perfect desk statue and sculpture for the right person. This unique gift would look great on a mantel.
Makonde Ujamaa Family Tree of Life Sculpture
This unique shelf décor piece is the perfect gift to display the beauty of family. It is the true meaning of love represented in a stunning sculpture.
Give the gift of Africa this holiday season. Shop the best gifts for everyone you love, all in one place: Luangisa African Gallery.
Happy Holidays!
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Historically, African baskets have been used for agricultural practices such as sifting, filtering, collecting and carrying crops, and porting produce to markets. African baskets have also been used for storing spices and tobacco and serving food and beverages in the household.
For example, in Guinea and Liberia, rice storage stacks form part of a bride’s dowry. Woven basket fiber products include sleeping and eating mats, fish traps, handbags, and carry baskets.
Basket-making is integral in modern community life and has evolved into a highly expressive contemporary art form. Different weaving fibers are used to make stylish baskets: Telephone wire, copper wire, beads, plastics, recycled bags, tin, and recycled fabric over Ilala palm.
BASKET MAKING IN AFRICA
Ilala palm, sisal leaves, fiber, raffia (African bamboo), fibrous trees, plant roots such as Makenge, vines, leaves (banana and palm), cane, bark wood, and papyrus are traditional fibers used in basketry. The fiber choice reflects the local habitat. The production methods of basket making include coiling, plaiting, twining, and cross or chequerboard weaving techniques. The end usage determines the basket’s size, shape, and features.
The basket design is created by weaving with different colors. Dyes are achieved from natural sources like roots, bark, fruit and berries, leaves, clay, dung, or combinations of the above.
While baskets have a naturally eclectic vibe, you can easily make them work for various décor styles, vintage-inspired, boho, traditional, rustic, coastal, or modern spaces.
At Luangisa, our baskets are hand woven by skillful and incredible artisan weavers who embody creativity and superb craftsmanship. Made from all-natural materials and woven in Africa, these unique African Baskets are for storage, decor, and more and are available in various colors and sizes.
LUANGISA AFRICAN GALLERY BASKET COLLECTION
Beautiful hand-woven basket made from embroidery thread, locally sourced sisal grass, and glass bead: great tabletop display and wall art. Every visitor to your home will be impressed by them. You can also give them to friends and families as unique housewarming, birthday, wedding, and holiday gifts.
Luangisa African Gallery Style Tip: A waterfall of textured, woven baskets creates a ton of visual appeal. Style our Rwanda/Kigali basket on an accent wall or next to your sofa for an eclectic display
Beautiful baskets with a cowrie shell rim handmade in Burkina Faso. These decorative and functional baskets can be used as fruit baskets on your kitchen countertops, dining tables, and coffee tables.
Luangisa African Gallery Style Tip: Adding a touch of décor to your space creates a more personalized and interesting look. Organize your desk, coffee table, or dresser with small woven baskets for keeping everything from lotions and makeup brushes to jewelry, pens, cables, remote controls, or even your craft materials.
If you are hunting for a way to spruce up a space, consider placing your plants in these plant basket holders. The Plant Basket Holder is the perfect perch for your favorite plant.
Luangisa African Gallery Style Tip: Handwoven in Ghana from thick, tough elephant grass, our durable Plant Baskets add a lovely touch of warmth to the vestibule or doorway.
This lovely basket is the perfect way to add a touch of texture to any space. Handmade by women artisans using locally sustainable and biodegradable fibers in rural Iringa in Tanzania, these durable baskets are great for organizing your home in style or as a sturdy planter.
Luangisa African Gallery Gift Idea: Seeking the ultimate gift for home décor enthusiasts? You can’t go wrong with this beautiful woven basket since the recipient will have endless styling possibilities at their disposal.
The most skilled Mbunda craftswomen weave our Makenge Marriage baskets. These baskets are handcrafted using tough Makenge roots and natural dyes. The patterns convey messages of beauty, marriage, and family.
Luangisa African Gallery Style Tip: Instantly transform your décor. These beautiful woven baskets turn a bare wall into a dramatic focal point; their rich textures, earthy colors, and unique handcrafted details add homey warmth to any space. Don’t want to hang your baskets? Add a few baskets to a shelf to create a visually appealing look.
The craftswomen of the Tonga tribe are renowned for their incredible basket-weaving techniques and fine artisanship. These globally styled baskets are intricately hand-woven by the women artisans from the Tonga tribe living in Northern Zimbabwe’s Zambezi Valley. These basket vase bowls are woven from Ilala palm fibers native to Zimbabwe. Each basket is a masterpiece and showcases a craft perfected from generation-to-generation.
Luangisa African Gallery Style Tips:
*Perfect style for rustic, traditional, and contemporary settings: This remarkable interior décor offers an ornamental accent to modern and traditional homes.
*These beautiful and functional baskets are perfect for holding, displaying, and serving decorative items, nuts, candies, vegetables, fruits, etc.
*Focus on variety. Mix and match various Tonga basket styles with similar colors to create a super interesting gallery wall.
Each basket is hand-woven by African artisans in a fair-trade environment. Mix pieces of the Luangisa Africa Basket Collection for an effortlessly easy way to decorate any space in your home. These baskets also make the perfect gift for your loved ones who appreciate African Art and culture.
Your purchase supports the artisan communities who produce these products and helps preserve these traditional crafts and cultures.
Click here to discover the newly restocked African Baskets in various colors and sizes.
]]>Luangisa African Gallery Offers Wholesalers High Quality, Hand Made African Crafts
Luangisa African Gallery is one of the leading suppliers of wholesale African home decor and African jewelry. They offer a wide selection of high quality, handmade African crafts that are perfect for reselling or for personal use. Their products are sourced from all over Africa, and they have a team of expert crafters who hand-select each piece to ensure that it meets their high standards.
If you're looking for unique, handmade African home decor or jewelry, Luangisa is definitely the place to shop. You'll find a wide variety of items to choose from, all at very competitive prices. And because their products are sourced directly from Africa, you can be sure that you're getting authentic, culturally rich items. So, whether you're a reseller or a shopper looking for something special, Luangisa is definitely worth checking out.
Our wholesale African home decor options include items such as paintings, sculpture, masks, textiles, and more. We also offer a wide variety of African jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more. Browse our website to view our inventory and to learn more about our wholesale opportunities at: https://luangisa.com.
]]>September 3rd was an incredible day in celebration of African heritage, cultural pride, and community at the 5th annual Wakanda Celebration.
This annual celebration was hosted by Luangisa African Gallery with partnerships from Westchester County Government, Arts Westchester, and MWF NewYork.
Guests enjoyed shopping from local vendors, such as Alexander Boyce, Until It's Gone, Africa Boutik, Heart with the Art, Dolly's Natural Essentials, Mount Vernon Health Center, the Mount Vernon Public Library, and much more. They also had the opportunity to enter raffles in support of the soon-to-be-opened, Luangisa African Museum Cultural Arts Center.
The food was also incredible as guests enjoyed food from Out of Afrika Cuisine, Chef Ed, desserts from Kimberly Sanchez, vegetarian delights from Veggie Grub, and delicious bites from The Boss with Da Sauce.
Kids also had a wonderful time blast in the Wakanda Children's Village where they enjoyed a collection of free mechanical and inflatable rides, face painting, books from the Mount Vernon Public Library, LEGOs, and much more.
The live music and performances keep everyone moving as guests enjoyed drumming, dancing, singing, and more. This included the Libation Opening of the Way, Dr. Garvey & The Scrubs, youth performances featuring The Revelators Dance Troupe, Tina Kakolaki & Ware Ware Music Band, Bokandeye African American Dance Theater, Gena Roots Band, PitsiRa Ragophala YaMabala & Live Band: “A global fashion experience, and more.
Admirers of African-inspired trends were in awe as they watched the stunning looks before their eyes in the Luangisa Wearable Art Fashion Show. Along with music from PitsiRa Ragophala YaMabala & Live Band, guests enjoyed a curated collection of African fashion capsules featuring African Weddings, Liberation Wear, Majestic Kings and Queens, Traditional Warrior Outfits, African Accessories, and Contemporary African Wear.
The Wakanda 5 Celebration was a wonderful day of community, Africa, children, and culture.
Stay tuned for more information on Wakanda 6!
Thank you to the Traphagen School for hosting the Wakanda 5 Celebration. Until next year!
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For Quality African Goods Including Jewelry, Clothing & Home Decor Shop with Us at Luangisa African Gallery
The Luangisa African Gallery offers a wide selection of wholesale African home decor and African jewelry. The gallery is committed to offering quality African goods at reasonable prices. In addition to home decor and jewelry, the gallery also offers clothing, bags, and other accessories. If you are looking for African home decor or African jewelry, Luangisa is definitely the place to go. Luangisa is known as one of the largest suppliers of African home decor and art in the USA. We offer a wide selection of wholesale African home decor and African jewelry. Our products are of high quality and very reasonably priced.
Looking to Buy African Art and Home Decor Wholesale - Browse Our Website
If you're looking for African art and home decor at wholesale prices, then you'll want to check out Luangisa African Gallery. We offer a wide selection of both traditional and contemporary African art, as well as a variety of African home decor items. Whether you're looking for something for your own home or for resale, we're sure to have what you're looking for. Browse our website today to see our complete selection. Browse today at: https://luangisa.com.
]]>If you are looking for high quality African art, home decor, jewelry and more, then you need to contact Luangisa Art Gallery. This gallery specializes in providing unique and beautiful products from Africa that will add a touch of style and elegance to your home or office.
Luangisa Art Gallery has a wide variety of products available, so you are sure to find something that you love. The staff is also very friendly and helpful, so don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions. We work with a network of talented artists from all over Africa, so we can always offer the latest trends and designs. Plus, our team is happy to work with you to create custom pieces that fit your specific needs. Whether you're looking for a few items to supplement your existing inventory or want to build an entire African-themed collection, we can help.
Looking for a reputable African art gallery to buy wholesale from? Look no further than Luangisa Art Gallery! We offer the largest selection of African furniture, rugs, jewelry and more, all at competitive prices. Our team of experts are on hand to help you find the perfect piece for your home or business. Contact us today to learn more!
If you are interested in stocking our products, please contact us today at: https://luangisa.com. We would be happy to send you more info about our latest offerings, and we can even provide you with pricing information upon request.
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Here is what can to expect at the Wakanda Celebration taking place on the 3rd of September:
Live Music and Dance Performances!
It’s Mount Vernon’s ultimate African festival. This year, the Wakanda Celebration brings a great lineup of artists to Traphagen School including PitsRa YaMabala, Tina Kakolaki, The Scrubs Band, Bokandeye African American Dance Theater, and The Revelators Dance Troupe.
Get ready for a transformative experience with non-stop music and live dance performances by these world-class talents!
In Africa, our culture and community are our biggest pride, and this celebration is designed to uplift and amplify this rich culture and community in the diaspora.
Music and dance are a staple of African culture, and their breadth and versatility will be on full display at the Wakanda Celebration. Experience the vibrant and diverse nature of live African and African-influenced music with musical performances from PitsRa YaMabala, Tina Kakolaki, Mike Phillips, and The Scrubs Band.
Bask in the joy of live dance performances from Bokandeye African American Dance Theater and The Revelators Dance Troupe.
Experience the Luangisa Wearable Art Experience
African print garments have grown very popular around the world. When you wear them, they fulfill a significant cultural function and affirm the value of your proud African heritage; it is an expression of cultural pride.
Admirers of African-inspired trends may be interested in scoping out the new looks at the Luangisa Wearable Art Showcase this September. This year the Wakanda Wearable Art Experience will feature a collection as dynamic and varied as the African continent. The Showcase will include:
*African Weddings
*Liberation Wear
*Majestic Kings and Queens
*Traditional Warrior Outfits
*African Accessories and
*Contemporary African Wear
The Wakanda Wearable Art Showcase aims to celebrate African creativity and culture by exhibiting designs from across the continent.
The Wakanda 5 Celebration is going to be legendary! You will feel accessibility to the rich African culture as we transport you to the Motherland with African sounds, fashion, and dance movements. So, bring your dancing shoes or no shoes at all as we bask in the joy and celebrate the magic of African culture!
Schedule (subject to change):
1:00pm-1:30pm: Dr. Garvey & The Scrubs
2:00pm-2:30pm: The Revelators Dance Troupe
3:00pm-3:30pm: Bokandeye African American Dance Theater
4:00pm- 4:30pm: Tina Kakolaki & Ware Ware Music Band
4:50pm-6:00pm: Luangisa Wearable Art Experience With PitsiRa Ragophala YaMabala & Live Band
6:30pm- 7:30pm: Gena Roots Band
The Festivities will begin at 11am. This is an experience you don’t want to miss. So, get your tickets now to secure your spot at this one-of-a-kind celebration. Tickets are Free!
]]>As a leading African art gallery, Luangisa Art Gallery offers wholesalers a wide selection of high-quality African art to choose from. Whether you're looking for African home decor, jewelry or other items, we have a variety of options available to suit your needs. Plus, our team is always available to help you select the perfect pieces for your customers.
What sets us apart from other suppliers is our commitment to quality. We sell products that are made by skilled artisans, we also offer a wide selection of handmade products made in Africa with materials sourced from Africa. This means that our products are truly unique, and they are sure to stand out in any store.
If you are interested in purchasing any of the products at Luangisa Art Gallery, then please visit our website at https://luangisa.com or contact us by phone or email. You won't be disappointed with the quality of our products or the level of customer service that we provide.
]]>If you're looking for authentic African art to enhance your space, then check out Luangisa African Gallery. This gallery specializes in home decor and accessories made from natural materials, like wood, metal, and glass. You'll find a variety of pieces that are perfect for adding a touch of African flavor to your home. Plus, the prices are very reasonable.
You'll Love the Selection of African Home Decor Items We Offer
If you're looking for the best African art and authentic home decor items around, be sure to check out Luangisa African Gallery. Not only do we carry a wide variety of items from Africa, but our prices are also unbeatable. Plus, our team is always available to help you find the perfect item for your home.
If you're looking for African art that will make a statement in your home, Luangisa is the place to go. This shop offers an amazing range of products, including sculptures, jewelry, furniture, and more. You'll find something to wow everyone in your home with at Luangisa. Plus, the prices are very reasonable. Browse our shop today at: https://luangisa.com.
]]>Luangisa is Known as One of the Largest Suppliers of African Home Decor and Art in the USA
If you're looking for unique African art and home decor, you've come to the right place. Luangisa is a major supplier of African art and home decor in the United States, and its items are truly second to none. You can find everything from jewelry to furniture to rugs and more. If you're in the market for something special, make sure to visit this eshop full of many items.
For African Jewelry, African Art, African Furniture and More Shop Luangisa Art Gallery's Eshop
The Luangisa African Art Gallery online storefront offers a wide variety of African art, jewelry, home decor and furniture. The gallery has a comprehensive selection of items, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets and more. This store also carries masks, bodices and skirts made from African fabrics. It is the perfect place to find unique gifts for friends or family members who are interested in African culture and art. Browse our shop today and learn more about the many items within the many categories that we offer https://luangisa.com.
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The Yoruba beaded royal chair underscores the ancestral glory, authority, and honor of the Yoruba Kingship. The design of the beaded chairs derives from the royal chairs used by kings and queens from the Yoruba tribe, one of the three largest ethnic groups of Nigeria in West Africa.
Thrones remain some of the most fascinating furniture. With similar parameters—the armrests, a high back, and rich ornamentation—these chairs denote power, strength, and wisdom.
An exquisite and functional piece of African art, the Yoruba chairs are intricately hand-embellished with thousands of glass seed beads applied to fabric covers, stitched, or glued onto the chair frame.
Each piece takes three months to make. Traditionally used by the Yoruba Kingships and royal court, these chairs will make you feel like royalty.
In brilliant shades of jungle green, blue, ornate red, and orange, these tribal armchairs are the perfect garden chairs. These tribal armchairs feature geometric patterns with masked faces, flowers, and plants.
Each piece of this lively, dynamic, and colorful collection is delicately upholstered.
STYLING TIPS:
The Yoruba beaded chairs are the best representation of furniture as art. Instantly transform your décor setting by bringing home this traditional-style accent chair.
Great for an outdoor patio and always a talking point; relax outdoors in your backyard and garden with this iconic beaded chair.
The chair's low profile invites you to sit back and relax—style this one-of-a-kind piece in your living room, alcove, or hallway.
At Luangisa, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our Home Decor collection. Click here to discover our one-of-a-kind collection of artisan made items and pre-order your Yoruba Beaded Chair.
]]>Looking to Buy African Art at Wholesale - Contact Luangisa
If you're in the market for African art at wholesale and want to buy items to sell at your local market, store or through your retail platform at wholesale prices, Luangisa is the company to contact. With thousands of pieces of art, fashion, home items and more from all over the continent, this company has plenty of products that your clientele are sure to be interested in.
If you're looking to buy a specific piece in bulk or just want to browse through a wide selection to see what is available, our website is the perfect place to start. Plus, because the site is operated by African artists themselves, you can be sure that their products are of high quality.
Partner with Luangisa for African Art, Fashion & Jewelry Opportunities
We Actively develop and stock fair trade modern African Art, Craft, Home Decor, fashion and jewelry and work directly with artisans across Africa to reveal the rich African culture and heritage with the world. This makes Luangisa the perfect partner for wholesale opportunities. Contact us today to learn more about our company and products: https://luangisa.com.
]]>For Interesting & Exceptional African Art Browse Luangisa African Art Gallery
If you're looking for African art, African home decor, or jewelry that represents the continent's diverse cultures and history, then you'll want to check out Luangisa. This shop carries a wide selection of items that will appeal to anyone who loves African art.
You can find items that represent traditional African art styles such as sculpture, painting, and textiles, as well as contemporary pieces that reflect the latest trends in the continent. In addition to art, Luangisa also sells home decor items such as rugs and candles, all of which are designed to reflect the culture of Africa.
Something to Fit Anyone’s Taste
If you're in the mood for something special, be sure to check out their collection of jewelry. There's something for everyone at Luangisa, so be sure to stop by and see what's available. Visit us today and see why Luangisa is the go-to destination for African art, African home decor, and jewelry. We promise you won't be disappointed. Browse our e-shop at: https://luangisa.com.
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NDEBELE
The Ndebele people are Zulu-speaking people who live near the border of South Africa and Zimbabwe. They are one of the most colorful and distinctive tribes in Africa. Their bold geometric beadwork holds significant social and symbolic meaning.
Ndebele women cement their social and cultural identities through the language of beadwork. They are skilled artisans known worldwide for their use of glass beads. The elaborate and labor-intensive designs are made by hand. Traditional older pieces of Ndebele beadwork are distinguished by large areas of white beads interspersed with small geometric designs in color. Symmetrical abstract geometric designs identify contemporary beadwork, and later pieces include references to everyday life such as pitched-roof houses, license plates, electrical lights, and telephone poles.
In the past, the beads used were made from locally available materials such as shells, metals, animal bones, and hides. However, as trade with Europe began to increase throughout southern Africa, beads began to be made primarily of glass imported from India and China. In the 19th and 20th centuries, large quantities of glass beads were imported from Europe to make items unique to the region. Today, much of Ndebele beadwork is made of glass or plastic beads. However, the immense significance that beadwork has in the lives of women and the way that meaning is communicated through colors, geometric patterns, and the movement continues to still resonate through these new materials.
At Luangisa, we work directly with Zulu women artisans in South Africa to produce high-end beaded jewelry based on traditional beading techniques infused with modern aesthetics. Through our collection, we preserve the traditions of this unique tribe.
MAASAI
The Maasai people of Kenya are well known for their traditional handmade beaded jewelry – it is a vital aspect of Maasai culture. The practice is done primarily by women, and it’s considered their social duty to learn beadwork. These Maasai beadworks like colorful necklaces, bracelets, and pendants are for both men and women and are used in cultural traditions such as weddings, rituals, and community events.
The Maasai beaded jewelry represents beauty, strength, tradition, warriorhood, marriage, age sect, marital status, social status, and deep love and loyalty for their cattle.
The Maasai beaded jewelry has essential and specific cultural significance. Beauty is a crucial aspect of Maasai culture for women and men, and beads are used as adornment throughout everyday life and ceremonies.
For example, when women get married, a unique wedding collar is made for them by their mother. Traditional wedding collars have multiple beaded strands hanging off the collar, denoting the dowry in cows that will be given to the family of the bride. Even though this collar is reserved for the wedding day, women wear similarly layered collars in everyday life and ceremonies to signify wealth and beauty. Unmarried females wear massive flat beaded discs around their neck when dancing to symbolize grace and flexibility. Additionally, individuals of high social standing will wear more colorful and intricate jewelry.
The tradition of Maasai beadwork dates back hundreds of years. Before the arrival of Europeans to East Africa in the late 1800s, the Maasai women used clay, sticks, seeds, shells, dried grasses, and other natural materials to make beads. Theydyed some of these items to achieve a specific color. Over time, they began using attractive beads made of plastic and glass that they obtained from other communities through trade. The Maasai beadwork became significant and known to the rest of the world in the 19th century. Today glass is the primary material used by the tribe for their beads.
Today, beadworks serve as an essential source of income for the Maasai. For years the Maasai practiced pastoralism—livestock was their only source of income. They would depend on milk from their cows and goats and the trade of livestock to sustain their families needs. But hot and arid conditions affected the pasture land. Faced with drought and unproductive drylands, Maasai communities turned inward to women and looked to repurpose one of their most celebrated traditions—beadwork.
The colors used in the beadwork are chosen for their beauty. Each color bead symbolizes a different aspect of the Maasai culture. The colors are also symbolic and have essential meanings understood by the tribe. Often these meanings have an association with cattle, which is the Maasai’s primary food source and for which they have a deep connection.
There are several different colors used in Maasai beadwork, and each one holds a special meaning:
White: Represents purity and peace, symbolizing the color of cow’s milk that provides sustained nourishment.
Red: Denotes bravery, strength, unity, and the incredible challenges Maasai people face each day.
Orange: Symbolizes warmth, friendship, generosity, and hospitality. Orange represents the color of a gourd used to share milk with guests and welcome visitors into one’s home.
Blue: Denotes energy and sustenance and the color of the sky, which provides water for the people and their cattle
Yellow: Symbolizes health, fertility, and growth, denoting the color of the sun, which helps nourish the grass to feed the livestock and preserve life.
Green: Represents nourishment and production, symbolizing the land that provides food for the people and their livestock. Green also implies putting down roots and the protection of one’s territory.
Black: Denotes unity, harmony, and solidarity. It also symbolizes the color of the people and the daily struggles they endure each day.
At Luangisa, we directly work with Maasai women to produce and market high-end beaded jewelry based on traditional beading techniques infused with modern aesthetics.
Each piece tells a story. Beaded jewelry is part of the Maasai identity, and through our collection, we tell their stories and preserve the traditions of this unique tribe. Maasai culture is highly patriarchal, and it is the women who are hurt the most by issues of structural inequality. With us working directly with them, they are finally given the opportunity to progress both socially and economically.
Want to own a piece of the Ndebele and Maasai beadwork?
Discover a variety of beaded jewelry, accessories, and home decor made by Zulu and Maasai artisans here.
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The Juju Hat is a traditional feather headdress that originates from the Grassfields region of Cameroon.
For centuries, the Bamileke tribes created the Juju hats for their tribal chiefs, royal families, and luminaries to wear during tribal ceremonies. Palace dancers also wear them during festivities and ceremonies. They are regarded as symbols of prosperity, success, and good health.
At Luangisa African Gallery, our beautiful textured Juju Hats are intricately crafted by Bamileke women in West Cameroon. These artisans are master weavers, and each Juju Hat purchased from our Gallery directly supports them and helps keep traditional skills and crafts alive.
Each hat is authentic and takes 2-3 days to complete. It is handmade, consisting of dyed chicken feathers, colored using natural organic dyes. Each cured and dyed feather quill is carefully fitted one at a time and delicately wrapped in a black fabric and sewn into a basket-like base made of raffia. This makes it easy for the Juju Hat to fold up into itself to be very portable when moving or storing. A string attached to the back is used to pull the hat open to its full breath like a blossoming flower.
The Hats are made with love during the dry months of the year so the grass and feathers can dry before manufacture.
Today, Juju Hats have become a contemporary and colorful wall hanging for the home, offices, hotels, restaurants, and all types of interior spaces. Both elegant and dramatic, this one-of-a-kind piece sits on the wall strikingly in its affluence of shades and shapes. This iconic wall décor accessory is an object of rare beauty and will create a statement when displayed on a wall as part of a larger collection or simply on its own.
The Juju Hat adds texture and color and embodies that raw sense of Africa culture, craftsmanship, and heritage. Celebrate this in your home with these unique home decor pieces.
Click here to discover our newly restocked Juju Hats in various colors and sizes.
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The Bamileke Tribe lives within the larger cultural region known collectively as the Cameroon Grasslands. Although the Bamileke people share artistic traditions with the Bamum and Kom neighbors, they produce works with distinct characteristics. As a result, the Bamileke Tribe has developed some of the richest traditions in Africa.
The Bamileke Tables and Stools, brilliantly crafted by the Bamileke, are done entirely by hand from massive woods and come in various patterns and sizes.
They are hand-carved from hollowing out a single tree trunk. The process involves the artisan throwing the lumber into the river to soften it up for carving. The intricate rustic latticework pattern is then hand-carved into the hardwood.
As a piece of royal furniture, the Bamileke stools were traditionally used only for special ceremonial seating by the Bamileke Tribe. The traditional ornate woven patterns carved into the wood represent the web of the earth spider, a symbol of wisdom. The Bamileke people believe the web of the earth spider is also a link between this world and our ancestors; carving the web into these pieces allows departed loved ones to be connected to these ceremonies in spirit. In contemporary times, these decorative and functional stools have become popular furniture items. Bamileke stools are great pieces to ground any modern or tribal inspired space. The rich textures lend an organic, rustic, and earthy feeling to your décor. These multi-tasking pieces are an ideal coffee table, bedside table, corner table, or simple stool for any modern, eclectic living space.
At Luangisa, we hope that every single sale of the Bamileke stools changes lives by giving our local artisans an element of hope and that these exquisite pieces bring joy to your life.
To learn more about these statement-making pieces, click here.
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The Luangisa African Gallery Holiday Marketplace is a festive marketplace where you can shop for holiday gifts and experience holiday displays that will motivate your own decorations, and much more.
We are thrilled to organize an in-person holiday market this December. Our commitment to sustainable, fine quality, beautiful, and eclectic products will make for a delightful shopping experience.
Luangisa is excited to welcome holiday shoppers to the Luangisa African Gallery safely. The Market offers high-quality hand-crafted gifts created by some of Africa’s most talented artisans. In addition, for many shoppers, the luangisa holiday market offers unique artisan-made gifts they can’t find anywhere else. Browse and shop a carefully selected collection of gifts, including:
Home and Holiday Décor – flatware, placemats, coasters, pillows, pillow covers, bedspreads, throws, Kuba pillows, Juju Hats, Nativity candle holder, mirrors, Namji dolls.
Fashion – Bags, fabric, wraps, Zulu Hats, and more.
Jewelry – Beaded earrings and necklaces, body and face adornment, rings, wood jewelry.
Art - Batik art, artifacts, Makonde art, textiles, and original paintings.
Handcrafts – Games, baskets, trinkets.
And other gift ideas!
You can see our full collection here.
The Luangisa African Gallery Holiday Marketplace is the most rewarding, enjoyable place to shop for your holiday gifts. The Market is an opportunity for you to take care of all your holiday gift needs under one roof and set your mind at rest with the knowledge that your holiday gift shopping is crossed off your list!
At the Luangisa Holiday Market, there is something for everyone!
We are thrilled to organize an in-person holiday market this December. See you at the Market!
For more information, visit https://www.luangisa
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This holiday season, depart from the traditional table décor. Instead, differentiate your table-scape with a welcome dose of artistic elegance, character, visual interest, and the artisan touch from the table setting offerings, ethically sourced from across Africa by Luangisa African Gallery.
Show off your design skills by displaying handmade items from different cultures, intentionally grouping them to create an authentic traditional vibe. Each lovingly created design, from placemats, breadbasket to the fruit bowl, utensils, flatware pieces, Makonde Art centerpieces, and tablecloths, creates a festive atmosphere that appeals to all the senses and helps convey a message of gratitude and community.
At Luangisa, we recognize that the table setting style adds to the environment of a meal and establishes the tone at Thanksgiving. Therefore, we have curated a beautiful selection of artisan-made centerpieces, flatware, placemats, decorative accessories, and tablecloth that might serve as an inspiration or help you achieve an elevated Thanksgiving atmosphere.
MEANINGFUL CENTERPIECES
The easiest way to make a table look sophisticated in no time is to opt for a unifying centerpiece. This Thanksgiving, choose items with meaning and history. You want your table decor to add a grounding element steeped in community nostalgia and perhaps even serve as a discussion piece in the room.
Add a spirit of community to your holiday table with our Makonde Ujamaa Family Tree of Life Sculpture, handmade in Tanzania from 100% Tanzanian Ebony Wood. These unique works of art will give your table a sophisticated element.
ANKOLE ORGANIC TRAY – Our Ankole Organic Tray makes a gorgeous centerpiece. Cast a note of traditional elegance onto the holiday table with this unique work of art.
BEADED NDEBELE TRAY WITH MIRROR - The centerpiece should be attractive, like this beautiful Beaded Ndebele Tray with Mirror.
ANKOLE VASE: Center your table décor around our Ankole Vase. Handmade in Uganda from ethically sourced Anklole cow horn, this vase lends an earthy tone to your table.
BASKETS: If you are a host who loves to strike a balance between subtle and statement, Luangisa offers various great centerpieces that invite texture to any table.
Thanksgiving is about celebrating the harvest season, so bring some of the earth’s bounty to your dinner table with our Tonga Pattern Basket Bowls. These beautifully textured baskets are handwoven from ilala palm fibers native to Zimbabwe.
Lend an earthy, natural tone to your table with our Cowrie Shell Bowls. Handmade in Burkina Faso, these adorable serving bowls will add intrigue to your tablescape.
Other options for eye-catching centerpieces include Turkana Organic Bowl and Massai Warrior Family Sculpture.
PATTERN PLAY: Entertain in Style with Layered Textiles and Textures
Make mealtime at your thanksgiving dinner a whole harmony of beauty. Breathe some life to your dining table with an assortment of eye-catching designs.
If your goal is to make a statement, use an unconventional item, like our Hand-Sewn Table Place Mat Kitenge Patch.Handmade in Tanzania by women artisans, this scene-stealing placemat features an alluring pattern made of colorful pieces of fabric worn and found in East Africa, West Africa, and Central Africa. Bursting with vibrant colors, this Kitenge placemat will help set the mood and compliment any Thanksgiving Table Setting theme.
Embrace African culture with this textured flatware:
Beaded Serving Spoon – A hostess’s dream, the hand-beaded serving spoon features a sophisticated pattern of brown, gold, and silver glass beads.
Hand Beaded Serving Spoon & Salad Set - Hand beaded by Zimbabwe Artisans using multi-colored glass beads, this serving set is unique and hand-beaded to give the perfect ethnic aesthetic.
For an unexpected touch to your holiday table, incorporate our lovingly made mini appetizer flatware:
Beaded Mini Appetizer Forks – Beaded mini appetizer forks set of 6. Hand beaded by Zimbabwe Artisans using black, cream, gold, and silver glass beads.
Beaded Mini Dessert Spoons - Beaded mini appetizer spoons set of 6. Hand beaded by Zimbabwe Artisans using black, cream, gold, and silver glass beads.
MATERIAL PLAY: Give your Table Scape a dash of depth and dimension with our Tie Dye Multi-Use Wrap
Our bold and rich-colored Tie Dye Multi-Use Wrap is a great way to give your dining room table a little personality if you want to spruce up your table settings with a tablecloth. Handmade from 100% Tanzanian cotton material and tie-dyed in a combination of beautiful eye-catching colors, the splash of color can transform an ordinary table into an unforgettable dining experience.
OUTDOOR HARVEST
Entertaining Guests Outdoors? Celebrate the beauty of fall and nature with an outdoor Thanksgiving table display. Our hand-carved Massai Warrior Male Bust with Bark and Massai Warrior Female Bust with Bark is the perfect table decorations that can add to the earthy ambiance of your outdoor setting. Made from 100% Tanzanian Ebony Wood, these unique works of art are the perfect way to put a spin on Thanksgiving if you are craving a different style this year.
To ensure that guests feel warm outdoors, add our Kuba & Bark Pillow Cover and Massai Warrior Pillow Cover to your outdoor décor. These pillows infuse any space with a pop of personality and help set a welcoming atmosphere.
Want to know more about the Luangisa Thanksgiving Table and holiday offerings? Click here to find out what resonates with you most.
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The Wakanda Celebration, an African celebration in Mount Vernon, has been held in early September since 2018. Every single year brings with it a different experience, and this year was no exception. The Celebration, which has become one of the highlights of summer festivities in Mount Vernon, saw incredible traditional sights and a rich display of African creative imagery.
The Celebration featured a drumline procession, colorful performances, tribal singing and dancing, African drum medley, wearable art experience, African market, face painting, storytelling, and feasting as a diverse cultural showcase. Spectators danced to live African bands and recorded music; they got into the spirit of the African, ate some East African donuts, Egusi soup, pilaf, and other delicacies.
The Wakanda Celebration Market resembled a large and sprawling central market in Lagos or Zanzibar. It featuredexquisite masks with Zulu and Ashanti symbols, baskets, bags with intricately fashioned beadworks, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, timepieces, home décor, abstracted figures made from wood, ivory, to elegant sculptures from our trade partners: Luangisa market, the brownstone, Ashanti Fields Collection, Tribal Truths Collection, Africa shop, 7Principles365, Brooklyn Headline Expressions, K. I. Jewelry by Melody Burns, Eco Wrist, Mini-Moments, African Accents, Wanted Designs Face Painting, African Holistic Health Chapter, and Shailah Edmonds.
The food vendors: Chef Ed, Veggie Grub, and Out of Africa Cuisine home-style African kitchen brought the taste of Africa to the Celebration. Signature dishes included Egusi soup, pilaf, and jerk chicken. Of course, everyone wanted to get a taste of the fusion menus.
The representatives from Monroe College, Pursuit Lending, and Community Capital New York were on hand to answer questions and provide information about their organizations’ mission and goals for the community. In addition, the Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health Center administered COVID-19 Vaccines to eligible attendees.
The Wakanda Celebration holds a deep significance for the local Mount Vernon community and the broader African American and African community in the United States. Wakanda Celebration is grateful for the support from incredible organizations and trade partners. We delivered an event of immense cultural value due to their outstanding support from Luangisa African Gallery, Westchester County Government, ArtsWestchester, KeyBank, Community Capital New York, People’s United Bank, Pursuit Lending, Monroe College, PSCB Bank, Etain, MWF New York, and Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health Center.
The event was a huge success. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, with participants commenting favorably on the experience! Until next year!
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A live event in Mount Vernon, hosting performances from some of the best African artists in the diaspora. With spectators reveling in moments of great festivity while perceiving the aroma of delicious African cuisines. Revelers, dancing to the live sound of African music and drum medleys!
It almost seems too good to be true. But you didn’t dream it up; it happened!
Celebrations are a fundamental piece of the African culture, and on the 4th of September, 2021, Mount Vernon resembled Africa’s cultural heartland, an open-air living museum of vibrant color and culture. Since its founding in 2018, the daylong cultural Celebration has been observed with singing and dancing, African art on display, storytelling, African fashion showcase, mouth-wateringly delicious foods, and so much more.
This year, the Wakanda Celebration delivered an event of immense cultural value. To kick things off, the Ice Cold Experience paraded the Celebration grounds with a magnificent drumline that got everyone on their feet.
Next up, the pouring of libation accompanied by a medley of African drumming. Music and dance are a staple of African culture, and the breadth and versatility were on full display at the Celebration. The revelers grooved to sounds from South Africa, Tanzania, Cameroon, Nigeria, and so much more. The Celebration performers provided nonstop music and entertainment throughout the entire day.
The Children’s Village also featured various activities, from African face painting to storytelling and African language learning; there was never a dull moment in the village.
The Fusha Dance Company beckoned the spectators to join the dance performance. Spectators were taught different African dance steps, and they danced in a circle with so much joy, reminiscent of the village square in African communities.
There were a variety of food stalls to choose from at the Celebration. The happy revelers enjoyed a great fusion of traditional cuisines from many countries.
All sun and smiles pored over the next ready-to-wear and accessory must-haves at the Wakanda Celebration Market. Attendees could not get enough of the unique traditional clothing and authentic African art.
Finally, the Luangisa Wearable Art Experience featured an array of eye-catching fashion items from the iconic Luangisa African Gallery. The Wearable Art Experience is a fan favorite at the Celebration, and this year was no exception. There were many cheers and phone clicks as models sauntered down the runway in different African traditional and luxury items.
WHY WE LOVE THE WAKANDA CELEBRATION
African culture is one of the richest globally, and the Wakanda Celebration was a truly African experience. Showcasing elements of an African celebration in a concert style, the Wakanda Celebration featured, among other things, the remarkable Pitra The First singing the Tanzanian National Anthem and the Ice Cold Experience band parading the festival grounds with an excellent drumline procession.
Afro-groove artist, Kaissa paid homage to the Afrobeat Legend, Fela, performing “Water” to an ecstatic crowd. Next, afro-soul singer Koku Gonza performed a medley of her international hit songs. Finally, the Fusha Dance troupe encouraged revelers to participate in the music’s beat during the dance segment, finishing with the Luangisa Wearable Art Experience.
Much of what people know about Africa is the beautiful architecture and Safari. However, the Wakanda Celebration shows people that there’s so much more to the region, including the food, dancing, music, art, and of course, the warm African people.
As a colorful celebration of heritage, culture, and traditions, the Wakanda Celebration Market contained a magnificent collection of Iconic African pieces. Attendees shopped for stunning crafts such as timepieces, accessories, traditional clothing, books, artifacts, and so much more.
The WC is a celebration of culture and continues to thrive as a platform for the community. One of the charms of the Wakanda Celebration is when attendees let loose and have a good time. They sang along to Miriam Makeba’s Tapa Tapa and took center stage during the Fusha Dance community dance call. The Wakanda Celebration is an important cultural event that involves the community in a new and unique way. Community organizations impacted knowledge; local artists performed and sold their work; new people appreciated art and African culture.
The Wakanda Celebration has seen tremendous growth over the years, cementing itself as a significant event in African culture. An acute sense of community characterized the Wakanda Celebration. The Celebration featured artists, community leaders, corporate leaders, and community members all uniting to celebrate African pride, identity, unity, and community and showing their gratitude for the delight and inspiration that Wakanda Celebration provides.
For even more images of the Wakanda Celebration, click here and be sure to check out our social media page for more information on the 2022 date for the Wakanda Celebration!
]]>As a socio-cultural movement, Pan-Africanism is an ideology of African unity based on affirming Africa as a place of belonging, both physically and psychologically. Pan-Africanist thought offers critical and more refined insights into the intersecting and interlinked experiences of Africans.
A central thrust emphasizes Afrocentric consciousness and the renewal of collective pride in African culture. A pan-Africanist lens shows how the legend of common biological or ethnic origins and cultural values promotes ideas about membership to a national collective. Many pan-African ideas of African unity are seen through theorizations of Negritude, Afrocentricity, black nationalism, and black consciousness.
Given the logic of the Pan-Africanist thought, people of African descent have a great deal in common, a fact that deserves celebration. In the words of the great Kwame Nkrumah, a proponent of Pan-Africanism and the former President of Ghana:
“All People of African descent, whether they live in North or South America, the Caribbean, or in any part of the world, are Africans and belong to the Africa Nation.”
In recognition of this, the Wakanda Celebration attempts to contribute to a broader narrative about the nature of pan-Africanist consciousness. The mission of the Wakanda Celebration is to celebrate the unique traditions, beliefs, and cultural lifestyles of Africa. The performances and presentations selected for Wakanda Celebration amplify this reality.
For African Americans whose lineage is tenebrous because their forefathers were enslaved, a celebration like the Wakanda Celebration is a way to interact with a comprehensive African identity. Wakanda celebration is all about identity, unity, and community. It is about reclaiming our heritage, its power, and wealth.
From the outset, the celebration has had clear goals. It was conceived and birthed as a tool to build community and celebrate Africanness. Within a context of cultural celebration and reflection, what stands out as exciting and fresh about Wakanda Celebration is that it serves as an avenue to connect with your identity, engage with the African continent, and show your appreciation of African culture and your support of the Black community. A significant way to further investigate one’s cultural roots is by immersing oneself in the spirit and essence of the Wakanda Kingdom, a place for us and by us, where everyone in the diaspora has a place they call home.
To learn more about the Wakanda Celebration and how to get your free ticket, please visit Wakanda Celebration
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Experience the Luangisa Wakanda Wearable Art Show
One of the major highlights of the Wakanda Celebration is the Luangisa Wakanda Wearable Art Show. The Luangisa African Gallery Fashion Collection features clothing and accessories that tell a story to represent African tradition, pride, and heritage. From ethically produced jewelry to magical patterns and textures to powerful colors and artisanally crafted hats, the Wakanda Wearable Art Experience showcases authentic African elegance and royalty. An African Live Band featuring PitsiRa The First, Lesedi Ntsane, Saidou Sangare, Ian Jesse, Fathi Tabaouche, and Yoli Zama will accompany the models as they showcase unique wearable art handmade by artisans in Africa. The Luangisa Wakanda Wearable Art Show starts at 5 pm. Don’t miss it!
Bask in the Joy of Live African Music
In Africa, our culture and community are our biggest pride, and this celebration is designed to uplift and amplify this rich culture and community in the diaspora. From Afrogroove by Kaissa Doumbe to Afrofusion by Shantell Renee, African music’s diverse and vibrant nature will be fully displayed during the Celebration. So, bring your dancing shoes or no shoes at all as we bask in the joy and celebrate the magic of African cultural intersections. We also have a DJ playing African music all day!
Dance! Dance! Dance!
Is it even a celebration of Africa if there is no dancing? This year's festival's line-up of dance performances includes Fusha Dance, RBG Girlz, and many more. So, get ready to experience African dancing like never before. You will feel accessibility to the rich African culture as we transport you to the Motherland with African sounds and dance movements.
Shop Iconic African Art at the Luangisa African Gallery
Did you know that African artisans handcraft the sculptures at Luangisa African Gallery? Join us as we immerse ourselves in the magic of African Art and pay homage to African craftsmanship. The Luangisa African Gallery will be open from 10 am-2 pm. Shop an expertly curated collection of home décor, African art, hand-woven baskets, fashion, jewelry, and more from Luangisa African Gallery. Expect to find a lively and colorful curated selection of unbelievable craftsmanship like Makonde Sculptures, Colorful Tie and Dye made of 100% Tanzanian Cotton, Fine Beaded Jewelry, and Wearable Art for the Body Made Out of Original Massai Glass Beads, Zanzibar Chests, Batik Wall Hangings, and much more! All things that you can’t find anywhere else!
Shop Luangisa - Luangisa African Gallery
Shop Around Africa
Discover and shop from an incredible selection of unique handmade goods from independent designers of African descent—Shop West African-inspired clothing and accessories from the Ashanti Fields Collection. As you choose specialty-made apparel from the Tribal Truths Collection, be sure to learn about the fantastic story behind the “Africenfused” pieces sold exclusively by them. Do you need accessories to match your new collection of African outfits? We have got you covered. Expect to find a beautiful collection of African accessories by Afiba Dawn Perkins at the Wakanda Celebration.
Connect with the Community
The Wakanda Celebration is a fertile ground for new orientations. The day-long celebration boasts authentic African fashion, food, drumming, dancing, and an iconic shopping experience. These activities will assuredly evoke a feeling of African pride and empowerment.
Also, be on the lookout for Black Panther Cosplayers. It is a celebration of Wakanda, after all!
The Festivities will begin at 10 am. We will be following COVID Safety protocols, from face coverings to social distancing and reduced capacity. Every measure will be taken to keep you safe as you experience Africa like never before. This is an experience you don’t want to miss. So, get your tickets now to secure your spot at this one-of-a-kind celebration. Tickets are Free!
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