Thursday, April 07, 2011

AFRICA ALIVE

 Great Zimbabwe Vest

This month is Africa month here, my friends. My designs, kits, jewelry—everything—is in homage to this magnificent and beleaguered continent. Twenty years ago, I was lucky enough to have journeyed to Zimbabwe, a voyage that included camping by Victoria Falls, kyaking along the Zambezi river, treking through the bundu on a photographic safari and simply falling in love with the the power and wonder that is Africa. I also married a man who grew up in Zimbabwe, a guy who casually tells tales of being chased by rhinos while camping in the bush. He didn't count on being chased by me. Ha! The rhino may have missed him but I didn't. Well, actually, maybe it was the other way around. All right then, I degress…

My evocative guide, Safaris and Savannas, will be posted later this month along with assocated kits, pins and jewelry. One design, glimpsed above, is Great Zimbabwe, an asymetrical vest named after the mysterious stone ruins located in Zimbabwe. More information on both the ruins and the design to follow. Also, 5% of sales will go to an African trust this month with more information to follow there, too.

Meanwhile, dream of far away savannas, of the simple but powerful triangle designs running through African pottery, textiles and carvings. Think of the fabulous basket weaving for which Africa is known and gather your yarns for a safari KAL starting in Ravelry later this month. Are you packed yet?