News — Akakpo

Ashanah here! I personally always have Africa on the brain. My junior year of college I did an abroad experience in Tanzania. A key thing I learned was how important local culture varies across the continent, and how important these traditions mean to the community. I one day hope to see as much of Africa as possible. Which is why when I discovered that our new craft artist is originally from Ghana  I needed to learn more. As always I encourage you to come wonder around the gallery. You’ll be sure to notice we have a neat series of cups...

At Akakpo & Co. they believe in thoughtful design. Their drinkware, tableware and jewelry is made with great care, and whether you’re buying something for yourself, a friend or loved one, they want that gift to be lasting. The Adinkra symbols they feature have long been a part of Ghanaian culture, and can be found on fabrics, pottery and in art throughout the country. Designer Ebenezer Akakpo has made these ancient symbols uniquely his own by creating depth and movement in each pattern. Each has special meaning, and their hope is that you find a personal connection to the symbol...

Ebenezer Akakpo’s glasses are silkscreened with intricate designs inspired by Adinkra symbols of his native Ghana. Each symbolizes a concept, such as hope, unity, bravery, or endurance. Ebenezer Akakpo’s drinking glasses tell a story. They are silkscreened with intricate designs inspired by Adinkra symbols of his native Ghana. Each symbolizes a concept, such as hope, unity, bravery, or endurance. Akakpo, an award-winning designer, lives in Portland, Maine, and studied jewelry making in Florence, at the Maine College of Art, and later earned a master’s in industrial design at the Rochester Institute of Technology.  He’s chosen patterns he uses for earrings...