MIDWEST KUSAFIRI BAG

My modern unification of ancient beading, Kente-inspired patterns, and American leather lead to the creation of handmade original leather purses with original hand-beaded patterns using a simple loom and sewn by machine as well as by hand. My artful use of these materials tells a story about the connection of Americans that come from a complicated multi-cultural heritage.

I deeply believe that the process is equally as important as the result because it adds a depth of understanding of how the result came to be. I also believe in repurposing unconventional materials to express ideas and emotions.

The purses are made from leather scraps that were from a Milwaukee leather store as well as given. The beads are Japanese seed beads weaved together with nylon thread. The patterns are my original designs.

FURAHA CLUTCH

The shoebox was repurposed into a loom when I was in my early 20’s, a time when I was determined to learn beading despite having very little money.

JIJI CITY PURSE