This handmade creation is offered in partnership with NOVICA, in association with National Geographic. Nonyem Abena Ibeneme transforms dried calabash shells into a necklace of organic beauty. It's a fun and tropical design, says the Nigerian-born designer. The six-strand necklace is crafted with hand-carved calabash hoops, recycled from those not used by calabash sculptors.
Product Features:
- Weight: 0.99 oz
- Dimensions: 20" L x 1.5" W
- Colors: Brownish orange
- Style: Strand
- Materials: Dried calabash on nylon twine
- Color(s) may vary slightly
- Clasp: Toggle, Fancy
- Made in Ghana
Story Behind the Art:
I am attracted to the fact that I am in a world of my own when creating pieces, and I'm overjoyed to see people who I do not know wearing my jewelry… it's like you are wearing a part of me. I was born the 16th of May 1960 to a Nigerian father and Ghanaian mother in Lagos Nigeria. I grew up both in Nigeria and in Ghana over different periods of my life. I went to law school in Nigeria. I worked in the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, in a private legal firm, and in a bank in Nigeria and later on in Ghana. I dedicated over ten years of my life practicing law, serving my nation and people. During this period I also got married and had a daughter.
1993 was a turning point in my life, after some soul searching I was ready to lead a more relaxing lifestyle and follow my growing passion as an artist, as well as spend more time with family. I have been following art for years, especially jewelry art, but I never really took time to create and enjoy it. I could put together accessories beautifully to match an outfit. I also kept an eye out for interesting jewelry on my travels – I was so intrigued by the different techniques and very unique designs.
I managed to acquire quite a jewelry collection over the years, but what really set things in motion for me was when I inherited antique beads from my mother after her passing. It was the sign I had been waiting for, so I began on my creative journey. It was rather spontaneous and as soon as people started admiring what I was wearing to occasions and events, I knew I was on the right path.
I am a self taught artist, very observant and browse the web, magazines and books to learn more each day. My creative inspiration comes from within mostly, and also from nature. I look at what people wear and listen to what they say about a product to improve on my designs. In terms of materials, I use everything that catches my fancy and I particularly like to incorporate recycled materials in my designs. I am constantly seeking to do what nobody has done. This is the challenge for me, to create unique items and art to wear. I am attracted to the fact that I am in a world of my own when creating pieces, and I'm overjoyed to see people who I do not know wearing my jewelry… it's like you are wearing a part of me.
Becoming a part of Novica has ignited waning passions, energized me towards creativity, and motivated me to believe in a bright future ahead, especially after feeling discouraged given the conditions of the international market. My dream for the future is to continue creating new designs and grow progressively, so that in the next five years my work is known worldwide.
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.
All weights and measurements are approximate and may vary slightly from the listed information