African Baskets of Dramatic Proportion - Remodelista
Partnering with indigenous crafters throughout the African Continental, Design Afrika bridges the gap between local tradition and the wider world of design. Founder Binky Newman creates Design Afrika’s dramatically proportioned baskets, which are inspired by the over-sized vessels of South African potter Louise Gelderblom. The designs are then rendered in wire by Zimbabwean artisan Professor Pedro in Cape Town and transferred to a village near Coffee Bay, incurring their signature dings and dents along the way. Hailing from many regions and traditions, Design Afrika baskets come in numerous shapes and sizes, from these impressive Xhosa gourds to smaller bowls and other vessels. Pictured with Batongo stools from Zambia, the small Xhosa gourd basket is available at Sundance; $225. As part of an effort to provide a sustainable income to indigenous people and preserve their local traditions, all Design Afrika baskets are handmade by traditional artisans from all over Africa. The “wonky” shapes of Bulawayo baskets only add to their charm. Two other favorites: a Xhosa long neck basket and Buhera bowl. Binky Newman stands with some of her partners from South Africa’s Masizame Women’s Project, who weave her designs from dried river reeds.