At kanju, we derive profound inspiration from the talent and tenacity of our African artisan partners and from the breathtaking artworks we encounter across the continent. This inspiration motivates us to collaborate with artists to create works that represent the vast landscape of African culture and artistic heritage so that you may enjoy these exceptional pieces in your own space anywhere in the world.
Committed to promoting the growth of our partners in Africa, we maintain robust relationships with artists and artisan groups—all in varying stages of independent development. By acknowledging structures in place and identifying areas that would benefit from additional resources for expansion, production support, or exploration of new techniques and artistic frontiers, kanju enables workshops and artisans to innovate. Our strategic support equips them to grow by taking on new apprentices, producing larger volume series, advancing materials sourcing ability, and engaging with a broader global arts community to elevate designs that are compelling to our discerning global clientele. Our close engagement with workshops in turn enables clients to commission spectacular one-of-a-kind works and source unique pieces from our specialty design series.
kanju connects directly with our artisan partners and groups that support them to create a unified platform to impact a complex design process with footholds in communities across the African continent. Artisans maintain a dignified standard of living, supporting their families and often taking on leadership roles in their personal and artistic communities to influence further economic development opportunities and inspire fellow artisans to advance their craft and business practices. At kanju, we aim always to harness our own awe of the works we encounter to empower artistic brilliance and support advancement in African communities.