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Eco-Smart Recycled Glass Bead Necklace from Ghana - Elorm
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Each recycled glass bead shines with Artisan Salome Korkor Kpokli's hope for her community as she trains others to become artisans and gain opportunities. Salome arranges sese wood and recycled glass beads along this necklace named Elorm, from the Ewe language of Ghana meaning 'loved by God'.
- Recycled glass, sese wood beads; brass clasp
- 34 g
- 54 cm L x 2 cm W
THE STORY BEHIND THE PRODUCT
Artisan Organization: Salome Korkor Kpokli
Country: Central America
"I'm a jewelry artist from Accra. I was drawn to this craft because of the natural love I feel for art. Once I visited a friend and saw her working on jewelry. It attracted me so much, I started designing jewelry of my own.
"I mastered this craft by using my break hours to learn from my friend, who generously taught me. I get my materials from the market. The best part of this work is when I see people who appreciate my designs and encourage me to do more.
"My friends say I'm calm and innovative. I'm always ready to learn new things. I decided to pursue a degree but I didn't have the funds. Some people promised to help me but they later turned me down. As the deadline for payment approached, I decided to take out a loan. My sister also lent me with some money she was holding at the time. I felt proud when I went back to school again. It was incredible,
"But there was a subject I really struggled with. A classmate at school offered to teach me along with a friend who didn't understand the subject either. It was almost a week before exams and I was also working while studying. I was so tired when I got to school!
"I really needed to pass my exams but, while he taught us, I fell asleep. I awoke, but then dozed off again. Naturally, he was annoyed and shouted, 'Salome! You like sleeping a lot!' I felt so embarrassed.
"Starting on my own was easy because of the passion I had, and learning and designing made it also easier for me. Currently, I teach two people from home. One of them is my husband.
"My inspiration arises from sharing ideas with people in the field of art and also reading more on what I do. However, it can be challenging when I have a design in mind but am not able to complete it.
"My hope is to be recognized in the larger artisan market and to develop a wider collection of designs. My dream is to become the best artist I can be and, one day, to train and employ others in my community to be effective artisans.""
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