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Anna Yawson

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Anna Yawson

Wood carvings in West Africa

"One thing I have come to love about carving is that there is no waste of wood. Every small piece of wood can be used to create small creatures."

"The skill to design is inborn. I can create sketches of styles for fabric before sending them to the seamstress and I'm also particular about details on every dress sewn for me.

"I was born on December 10 in Accra, the capital of Ghana. I am a jovial person. I try to make the people who come close to me happy. I like dancing and having fun.

"I got the opportunity to work as an art vendor. During that time, I visited several art workshops and observed carvers busy at work. Because of my love for design, I took particular interest in the way products were designed in wood. I also took keen interest in the final pieces. When my employers noticed my ability to identify the slightest differences in products, I was promoted to quality control personnel for the company.

"When this company finally left the country, I had developed an interest in arts and crafts, and was encouraged to attend an export school. After completion of the course, I sought out several carvers to collaborate with me. I'd sketch the designs on paper, then sit close to them as they did the carving. I also learned to nail the aluminum on the wood. Working with my hands was so interesting!

"One thing I have come to love about carving is that there is no waste of wood. Every small piece of wood can be used to create small creatures. It gives me so much joy to see finished designs being admired, and my design work helps me pay for my children's education.

"When I first got involved with carving, some of the carvers ran away with the money intended to purchase wood for designs. It was not easy at all. I learned a lot from those experiences, and learned how to negotiate with the carvers. Paying them promptly for their help encouraged the carvers to give me their best efforts. They also spread the news about my faithful dealings with them, so I don't struggle when I need more carvers to assist me. These were lessons I learned the hard way.

"I have trained two people and I also work with three experienced designers. At the moment, I provide jobs for ten artisans. It is my dream to increase in sales and be able to expand my workshop."

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Confronting Adversity

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Empowering Women

Caring for Children

Enabling Education

76 items by Anna Yawson

Reviews by Customers

Artist rating

Total reviews

22

Dominique

From San Francisco Bay Area

Verified Reviewer

10/14/2020

"A gorgeous ornament"

A truly unique ornament to be cherished forever. The attention to detail can be noted in the beadwork and color choices.

Purchased Item:

Ashanti Beauty, Recycled Plastic Beaded Wood Ornaments from Ghana (Pair)

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Carolyn

Verified Reviewer

05/06/2020

"Gift Well Received"

I bought this for my brother last year because hes a fisherman. He really really really liked it. I have yet to see it because I havent been over to his office, but hes mentioned it several times and how much he likes it.

Purchased Item:

Akpa Fish, Unique Wood Sculpture from Africa

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Thomas

From Naperville, IL

Verified Reviewer

11/04/2019

"Mask"

Beautiful

Purchased Item:

Ahinkwa, Handmade Orange and Black African Wood Wall Mask

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Karen

Verified Reviewer

10/03/2019

"Very Cute"

I love hippos!

Purchased Item:

Happy Hippo, Artisan Crafted Beaded Agate Necklace with Hippo Pendant

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Jane C.

Verified Reviewer

09/24/2019

"Perfect for the Hippo Lover!"

Anna Yawson has carved a magnificent hippo! The necklace is adjustable and will make the perfect and unique gift for my daughter, who collects hippos. It is definitely one of a kind and she has nothing like it. She will be thrilled with Annas wonderful craftsmanship!

Purchased Item:

Happy Hippo, Artisan Crafted Beaded Agate Necklace with Hippo Pendant

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cyndy

From texas, usa

Verified Reviewer

09/15/2019

"Cherished heirloom"

Love the color and size of this mask. Fits right in with other mask.

Best Uses

Display

Purchased Item:

Ahinkwa, Handmade Orange and Black African Wood Wall Mask

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