Local Talent

Today we went to the Kaross factory to see the work of the VaTsonga embroiders. 
Here is an extract from their website:
Kaross is an embroidery initiative started in 1989 with five VaTsonga embroiderers and Irma van Rooyen, a visual artist, as creative director and founder. Sitting on a kaross (blanket) the ladies started creating works of art unique to themselves and their cultural background. The objective was to create pieces of excellent quality and a fresh approach to handwork.


Now there are over 1200 women working on a variety of items from cushions, bags, wall hangings and table mats/cloths. 

My blip shows a couple of the men who prepare the designs - no formal training, just as they 'see it in their heads' and put it down. A lot of their work has cultural significance and is about tales told down the ages.  

The women do all the other work from embroidery, washing, ironing and sewing the items.