In the heart of Bolgatanga, Ghana, a vibrant community of artisans is weaving more than just baskets—they are crafting a sustainable future. The Baba Tree Basket Company stands as a beacon of ethical craftsmanship, blending tradition with innovation to create beautiful, functional, and therapeutic products.
Sustainable and Ecological Craftsmanship
Baba Tree artisans use elephant grass, a renewable resource, to handcraft their baskets. This sustainable practice not only preserves the environment but also maintains the cultural heritage of the Gurunsi people1. The company’s commitment to fair trade ensures that artisans receive fair wages, fostering economic stability within the community.
Vibrant Colors and Designs
Baba Tree baskets are renowned for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. Each piece is a unique work of art, reflecting the creativity and skill of the artisan. The use of natural dyes derived from local plants ensures that the colors are both beautiful and eco-friendly. From bold geometric patterns to subtle, earthy tones, the baskets cater to a wide range of aesthetic preferences.
Handmade with Care
Every Baba Tree basket is handmade, embodying the dedication and expertise of the artisan. The process involves splitting and rolling the straw, dyeing it, and then weaving it into intricate patterns. This meticulous craftsmanship ensures that each basket is not only beautiful but also durable and functional.
Community-Based Impact
The Baba Tree Basket Company is more than just a business; it is a community. Over 250 artisans work together, sharing skills and supporting each other. The company provides training and development opportunities, empowering artisans to innovate and improve their craft. This community-based approach fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, enhancing the overall well-being of the artisans.
Innovation in Tradition
Honoring local basket traditions and creating exciting forms with the oldest craft in the world is what Baba Tree does best. The company continually explores new ways to weave, blending traditional techniques with modern designs. This innovative approach not only keeps the craft alive but also introduces it to new markets and audiences, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
Therapeutic Benefits
The process of weaving itself offers therapeutic benefits. Artisans engage in a rhythmic and meditative practice that promotes mental well-being. The tactile nature of the work helps reduce stress and anxiety, providing a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Additionally, the natural materials used in the baskets, such as elephant grass, are free from harmful chemicals, making them safe for everyday use.
The Story Behind Baba Tree
Founded by Gregory MacCarthy in 1999, the Baba Tree Basket Company was born out of a desire to celebrate and preserve the rich basketry traditions of the Gurunsi people. Gregory’s vision was to create a sustainable business model that empowers artisans and promotes ethical craftsmanship. Today, the company continues to honor this vision, creating beautiful baskets that tell the story of their makers and their community.
The Baba Tree Basket Company exemplifies how traditional craftsmanship can be a force for good. Through sustainable practices, therapeutic benefits, vibrant designs, and a strong community focus, Baba Tree artisans are weaving a brighter future for themselves and the world. Each basket is a testament to their skill, creativity, and dedication to preserving their cultural heritage.
Jemima Akolgo was the first to weave this type of basket in Bolgatanga - so of course we named it after her and her master skills. Since then Jemima has taught and inspired many of our weavers with her innovative approach to traditional Gurunsi folklore.
Gbenka is a Gurune word that refers to the sieve traditionally used to filter pito - a regional liquor brewed from millet. These original baskets were some of the first to be woven in the Upper East Region of Ghana - a symbol of Ghanaian hospitality and coming together in community to celebrate.
Honouring local basket traditions and creating contemporary forms with the oldest craft in the world is what they do best at The Baba Tree Basket Company. https://babatree.com/