ASHANTI
Rings, Ashanti | hollow-cast, 18-ct yellow gold, 1998
The hollow rings were made using the archaic lost-wax casting technique of the Ashanti in Ghana, to which I was introduced personally by the goldsmith of the Ashanti king.
I wanted to create rings that capture the sensual, vibrant spirit of everyday life in Kumasi. The largest market in Africa, the exotic fruit, the bulging sacks balanced elegantly on heads and shoulders, the elaborate cloths draped around the women’s bodies, plus the decorative hairstyles: all of these a source of inspiration.
In 1999, I cast a series of pendants where I purposely did not smash open the clay mould, leaving this exciting moment to the wearer.
Yet, the idea of their being lost or found, or serendipity, is always involved.
