Elephant Theme Hand Carved African Mask, "Elephant Blessing"

"I am Victoria, a caring and an honest person who specializes in handcrafted arts. I live in the eastern region of Ghana where there is a vast land and each person is allowed to cultivate it. I started in this field in 2004 by selling calabash at the art center. My mum planted the gourds and I learned how to grow and prepare the calabashes.

"I have been determined in life right from childhood. I did not receive much school education, but I don't allow that to limit me in life. I was later sent to live with my aunt in Accra and I brought calabashes to sell. I had a customer who ordered a lot of the calabashes to make kora guitars and this helped me to save.

"I was focusing in lazy chairs and calabashes only. I got interested in crafts because I fell in love with the art and craft work when I realized how different items are made and the various designs we can come up with. I observed how artisans carved beautiful objects from wood and I learned. I did the painting and finishing.

"Abdul Aziz, a Novica featured artist, taught me how to finish my work and now I have two apprentices. I had to be respectful and listen attentively to my teacher to help me learn fast. I use paints that are lead free but are somehow difficult to come by. I find it challenging when I craft new items that require new materials.

"I get my inspiration from African traditions, and I donate to the orphanage home in my local community.

"A difficult moment in my life was when I went to South Africa and was not able to make it there. But now I am happy I have found Novica. I have fun with my children because they make me laugh and I feel happy with the relationship we share.

"My dream is to grow my business to be able to take care of my children, and I also would like to participate in more exhibitions."