Hand beaded in South Africa from a cooperative called Monkey Biz by artist Siyamamkela Hashibi. This elegant Springbok, called "Bokkie" in South Africa, stands tall and proud. Zig zagging beads in white and champagne create a subtle pattern throughout.
A piece of sculpture art that adds whimsy and interest to your home. Our Bokkie stands 12" tall and is 10" long nose to tail.
Monkey Biz products are beaded with love. As a heritage craft, Traditionally beads were used not only to adorn the body, but as a measure of value in ritual and economic exchange between locals and foreigners. In traditional African rituals, a fine bead necklace or beaded piece is treasured because it is thought to impart spiritual energy.
Each piece is designed and made by beaders in their own patterns and colours, and although there is a standard range of animal types when each artist makes her own animal every piece becomes unique.
Monkeybiz uses discarded off-cuts from clothing manufacturers as the filler material for the beaded animals and from time to time has donations of beads. The
Monkeybiz empowerment approach is remarkable because it encourages the woman to have dignity and pride in their work. It’s based on the philosophy of making artists self-sufficient, to understand business and to take responsibility.
