Embossed Brass and Sese Wood Stool from Ghana, "Links of Unity"

"I am a designer and woodcarver. I was born in 1966 in the Eastern Region of Ghana. My friends describe me as a straightforward person who always wants the best for those around me. I don't like cheating.

"I come from a family of artists so I can say art runs in my blood and I've been interested in the arts since childhood.

"Life has had its ups and downs. One night, when working in a factory, I had to sleep on an empty stomach and was really hungry the next morning. I went to work and saw bread and fried bean balls in a friend's locker. Well, I couldn't work on an empty stomach so I took it. But I was caught taking the food and the workers disgraced me. I've experienced embarrassing moments but this was the worst!

"In 1993, I was deported from Italy to Ghana with only 200 dollars in my pocket. After a while, that money ran out and it became really hard to feed myself. I had no place to sleep. After a while, I made a few friends who let me stay with them. I began following my friends to the art center to learn and carve. I eventually received more training when I was in Nigeria.

"Woodcarving requires patience and practice. In addition to seasoned wood, I use sheets of brass and aluminum to embellish my masks and designs. My inspiration comes from within me. I love designing but creating the ornamental embossed brass and aluminum is most challenging.

"I've been able to teach ten young people who are interested in my craft, and this benefits society. But I dream of one day having a bigger and well-equipped workshop where I can train even more up-and-coming carvers in my community."