Home Decor Ideas

Using a limited number of tools, the carvers mine the soapstone in large blocks, then pare off smaller chunks for carving. Using a small knife called a kisu, the carvers utilize as much of the stone as possible, using scraps to create miniature animals and colorful hearts. Once the Kisii stone carver create the raw forms, the items are transported to Nairobi, where a loose collective of artisans color the forms with natural dyes and etch the final details. The painted designs are inspired by the flora and fauna of East Africa, as well as textiles, tribal icons and even current events.