There is but one way to describe Eastern Africa; lush, green, drop-dead gorgeous, and jampacked with adventure. From the glistening beaches of Tanzania to Africa’s two tallest twin peaks, travellers fall in love with this hidden corner of the world as they explore the source of the Nile. Or get enraptured by the grasslands of the Serengeti that stretches out like a vision of eternity. Here, animals in their millions follow the ancient migration rhythm of the seasons. The artistic creations of this region try to encapsulate the untamed wildness that is synonymous with Africa – which is exactly what we offer you here at Dilwana with the exclusive products from this region.
When Africa comes to mind, are you thinking of sprawling savannahs, giant baobabs, and wild animals in abundance? In that case, welcome to East Africa, home to lush, green fauna, inviting beaches, and rolling grasslands. Naturally, the art of the region is as colourful and expressive as the people themselves.
Depending on which region the artist grew up in, they will learn their craft and the finer niches from their elders, so skills are passed from generation to generation. If you purchase an object from an Eastern African artist, you are purchasing a piece of history.
The paintings of the region tend to favour everyday life and aim to capture the African culture. Most African paintings have tell-tale slashes of colour that is synonymous with the region’s culture. Masks of all shapes and sizes are engrained in African culture, no matter the area – it is just the adornments that make masks identifiable by region. East African masks are typically decorated with hair (yes, hair) and jewellery to honour the dead. These masks tell a story themselves and can either represent man, animals, or the gods. Soapstone carvings are also predominant in the western regions of Kenya, while beaded, colourful jewellery items are scattered in markets across the continent.
Take a part of the wild, colourful heartbeat of Africa home with you. Dilwana offers exclusive pieces from this region that encapsulate everything that is East Africa in its full glory.
Do you want to know the crafts of Eastern Africa? So click here to see some of their crafts together!
