“Every detail matters. As above so below. As within so without. It all
comes together in whatever we create.” ~AAAA Co-op
For centuries, the artisans of Mali have been mastering the art of Bogolan textile-making, a traditional technique that involves creating hand-loomed fabric strips from locally grown and processed eco-cotton, and then dyeing and painting the cloths using natural materials such as mud, leaves, and bark. The resulting artworks embody symbolism of West African ancestry that the creators believe imbue spiritual meanings to the cloths, which is why they are also commonly known as medicine cloths.
Kanju proudly partners with AAAA Coop, a community-based initiative that brings together artisans from across Mali, offering a platform to showcase their skills and support their livelihoods. Through this independent cooperative, the artists keep their traditions alive while creating stunning works of art that transcend cultural boundaries, and then share them with the world.
Each Bogolan Totem Cloth is a masterpiece of intricate patterns, created as a community effort from the weaving of the cloth, through dyeing and painting the individual pieces, to the locally created, sustainable packaging. The designs are inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Mali, incorporating symbols and motifs that reflect beliefs about the human spirit and our connections to one another.
