Western Cape craft success at Decorex
Thirteen Western Cape craft producers and design makers taking part in the South African Handmade Collection (SAHC) trade and consumer show, alongside Decorex Johannesburg, have notched up sales of nearly R360 000, winning the prize for the highest sales within the SAHC.
Beaded, Ndebele-inspired mirrors by Sithabe African Crafts won acclaim at the SA Handmade Collection, (part of Decorex Johannesburg,) attended through the Cape Craft and Design Institute
In addition, beautiful brown and gold Ndebele-inspired beaded mirrors by Sithabe African Craft in Cape Town have scooped the prize for the best product within the SAHC.
The Western Cape craft producers attended the show under the banner of the Cape Craft and Design Institute, which organized individual stands for the craft producers as well as a retail shop. The SAHC participation at Decorex is sponsored by the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti), and attracts both local and international buyers every year with its vast collection of design-led, handmade products.
Sithabe’s striking gold and brown beaded circular mirrors drew inspiration from traditional Ndebele neck rings, which are made in a variety of colours and worn by women. Sithabe, which produces gift products, jewellery and accessories inspired by local culture, first used this beaded ring concept as an African-inspired festive season garland.
“Usually, my products evolve – they start as one thing and end up as something else because I keep seeing possibilities of many other items,” said Mathokoza Nhlapo, CEO of Sithabe, which means ‘we should be glad’ in Nguni.
“We have now used the ring, which we call ‘the circle of unending love’ in various craft forms, from stools, mirrors, picture frames and Christmas garlands to other evolving design ideas. One of the beaded stools was made in honour of Mandela Day and donated to the Western Cape Cerebral Palsy Association to be auctioned for fund-raising.
“We are very happy with this SAHC award, which is inspiring for the women living in rural areas who craft our design ideas.”
Issued by: Judy Bryant Communications
On behalf of: The Cape Craft and Design Institute
Contact: Judy Bryant judybryant@telkomsa.net |083 286 7168
CCDI Communications Manager Marjorie Naidoo
Marjorie.naidoo@ccdi.org.za |021 461 1488
Sithabe African Crafts |www.sithabecrafts.co.za |021 702 3047
