NOVICA Handmade Uzoma Wood Mask (Ghana)

Representing Uzoma, meaning 'the good way' in the Igbo language, this mask is crafted by artisan Abdul Aziz Mohamadu through an intensive process requiring both patience and skill. The artisan hand carves the mask from local sese wood, then allows it to dry for two weeks before sanding and hand painting the elongated nose, closed eyes, mouth and dotted incision details. The Nigerian-style mask, intended for wall use, is then painted with striking yellow and blue highlights, and finished with clay for an aged, vintage look.
 

Product Features:

• Weight:0.8 lbs
• Dimension:9.75" H x 5.25" W x 2.4" D
• Material: Wood
• Color: Black, Yellow
• Sese wood, clay
• Intended as wall decor
• Made in Ghana 

Story Behind the Art:
I was born in Accra in 1981. At a tender age, I used to draw pictures from magazines using pencil. During my primary education, I could paint using water colors to the admirations of my parents and their friends. This gave me confidence and inspired me to continue. I knew I would be a painter in future knowing that the flair to paint was in-born. In high school, I visited friends in college pursuing courses in painting and practiced with them using the acrylic paints on canvas. I started to paint for people in my neigbourhood upon request. When talking to people whose livelihood was on painting and the challenges they encountered in selling a single painting, it set me thinking as to whether to pursue this dream of becoming a painter in college or turn to a different field altogether. When I completed the senior high and awaiting my result to enter the college or university, I used to visit a man by name Musa at his workshop. He was into carving of mask, sculpture etc. I used to observe him with his workers and the joy with which they went about thier work. I was then in deep thought as to what next for me. The love to be in the art field was so strong. After careful observation of their carving over a period of time, one day I went to the workshop as usual and this time, I picked a log of wood and started carving out a mask as I have observed them do. This surprised Musa and he was willing to help me perfect the skill. I developed the love for the new skill I have aquired and decided to pursue it further. Because of my knowledge in painting, I could help Musa in creating very beautiful designs on the mask. In the year 2000 I went into carving and since then I hane never regreted staying in the art field. I haven't abandoned painting completely I still paint for customers upon request. I am now self employed with five workers. I have taught seven people how to carve and they are now also on their own and doing well. When I get large orders for some of my product's I call on them for their assistance. I have exhibited in the following places: British counsel Ghana (Feb, Oct) 2009 and (May 2010) Trade fair at Nigeria (Feb 2009) Trade fair Benin (Oct 2007),(June 2008), (June 2009) It is my desire to expand my workshop and train more people in the craft business and also give attention to my painting.
 

Please allow 10 business days for the product to leave our warehouse and to receive tracking information.You should expect to receive this item within 15 business days.