1. Sankofa Bird

From the Ashanti (Akan) People of Ghana, 22″ x 16.5″

Starting bid $100
Buyout $350

2. Awole Game

Starting bid $15
Buyout $50

3. Lidded Cameroon Basket

Starting bid $60
Buyout $180

4. Hunting Antelope Relief Panel

Starting bid $35
Buyout $100

5. Pounding Fufu Relief Panel

Starting bid $35
Buyout $100

6. Storytelling Relief Panel

Starting bid $35
Buyout $100

7. Kifwebe Mask

Starting bid $250
Buyout $750

8. Giant Hair Comb

Starting bid $30
Buyout $100

9. Three Little Monkeys

Starting bid $25
Buyout $75

10. Small Beaded Giraffe

Starting bid $20
Buyout $60

11. Man’s Tunic

Starting bid $80
Buyout $250

12. Green and Amber Double Strand Necklace

Starting bid $150
Buyout $450

13. Crafty Necklace

Starting bid $100
Buyout $350

14. Crafty Wall Hanging

Starting bid $175
Buyout $500

15. Matianna Blue Necklace

Starting bid $250
Buyout $750

 16. Yellow Chief’s Beads

Starting bid $50
Buyout $150

 17. Sankofa Bird Necklace

Starting bid $80
Buyout $250

Saturday, October 4 at 7:00 pm

Zuanich Boathouse at the Bellingham Marina, 2600 N. Harbor Loop Drove, Bellingham, WA 98225

From the Personal Collection of Kathryn Roe

These three items from the personal collection of Kathryn Roe will be for sale at the auction. Kathryn’s appreciation of West African art is what first brought her to Cote D’Ivoire and then Ghana, years before founding Anansi Education. Since the first Anansi art auction in 2005, Kathryn has curated art each year to bring from Ghana. These museum-quality pieces have been in Kathryn’s personal collection for decades and are among her favorite representations of West African art.

Silent Auction Items

Live Auction Items

1. Bee Mask

12.75″ x 6.75”
Estimated Value: $250.00

This contemporary mask is a modern interpretation of a traditional Zaire Song Ye “bee” carving. The striped
patterns represent power, transformation, and the link between the physical and spiritual worlds.

2. Modern Spirit Spouse

4.75” x 4.75” x 32”
Estimated Value: $425.00
This modern interpretation of a Baule Spiit Spouse, reflects a contemporary adaptation of Baule aesthetics and represents the
idealized spirit partners believed to exist in the otherworld (blolo).

3. Large Ebony Rhinoceros

21” x 5.75” 
Estimated Value: $700.00

This sculptural representation of a rhinoceros, one of “the big 5”, is hand-carved from a single piece of richly toned ebony,
showcasing the West African artisan’s mastery of form, balance, and stylized naturalism.

4. Nigerian Clay Figures approximately

6” x 3”
Estimated Value: $375.00

These two clay figures come from the collection of Milt and Judy Krieger. They reflect the importance of music and maternal grace
in West African Culture. Often displayed in shrines or used in rituals to honor ancestors, celebrate fertility, or invoke protection.

 5. Chevron Trade Bead Necklace and Earrings

Estimated Value: $600.00

This incredible composition of African “trade” beads is assembled into a striking necklace. The bead form is in the traditional
Venetian chevron shape and made via the millefiori technique developed in Italy. These beads were used as currency, as well as
decoratively, during the trans Saharan and Atlantic trade between Europe and west Africa from the 16th to 20th centuries.

 6. Baule Portrait Mask covered with metal repoussé

19” x 7”
Estimated Value: $350.00

This Baule portrait mask of a young woman with reflects the Baule values of refinement and inner balance. The extended side panels
frame the face in an architectural manner, linking the figure to the spiritual realm.

7. Pair of Small two-piece Elephant chairs

18.5” x 9.5”
Estimated Value: $250.00

This pair of wooden chairs represents a modern interpretation of a traditional chief’s stool from West Africa, presented here in bas relief carving of elephants which are symbols of strength, leadership and wisdom.

 8. Fanti Fertility Doll

5.5” X3.5”
Estimated Value: $275.00

This finely carved wooden figure of a traditional Fanti fertility doll is distinguished by its elongated, flat, rectangular head and stylized facial features, the figure has small breasts and a projecting naval both referencing femininity and motherhood. These dolls are traditionally carried by women to ensure health and beauty of a future child.

9. “To Market, To Market” designed by Reynola Pakkusich and
quilted by Jo Baner

42” x 72”
Estimated Value: $750.00

This colorful quilt designed by Reynola Pakusich and quilted by Jo Baner, both locally renown Bellingham fabric artists, depicts a parade of African women on one side and a colorful collage on the reverse. They bridge detailed traditional quilting and contemporary fiber art motifs and techniques appealing to both historic and modern collectors.

10. Contemporary Yellow-toned Baule Mask

19.5” x 10”
Estimated Value: $650.00

This mask represents the spiritual essence of a young Baule woman, symbolizing youth, grace, and the continuity of life. The mask’s light coloration reflects the traditional symbolism where yellow or light tones are associated with female energy, freshness, and the dawn of life.

11.Hand Carved Ghanaian Djembe Drum

24.5” x 13.3”
Estimated Value: $600.00

This hand carved, contemporary djembe drum, was brought from Ghana by Kathryn Roe who purchased it from a master carver in
Aburi. It has a one-piece solid body and a premium goat skin head. The base is pyro-etched with adinkra symbols, one depicting the sovereignty of God, the other connotating affluence, power and influence. Included as well is a colorful carrying case. This style of drum originates from the Mali Empire of the 12th century.

12. Large Beaded Giraffe

30.5″ tall
Estimated Value: $450.00

This vibrant beaded giraffe sculpture is a striking example of modern Ghanaian beadwork applied to an animal form. Carved from wood
and meticulously hand-decorated with orange and back glass beads, the figure celebrates both African wildlife and traditional craftsmanship. Though giraffes are not native to Ghana, they are a common subject in contemporary African art, symbolizing grace, intuition, and long vision.

Zakpai Ge (Dan Policeman’s Mask)

$10,000.00

This commanding mask is a classic example of a Zakpai Ge, also known as a “policeman’s mask,” from the Dan people of West Africa. Such masks are not spiritual intermediaries but function as agents of community law and order, often patrolling villages to enforce rules during public festivals or ceremonial periods.

The mask is characterized by its bold red pigmentation—symbolizing danger, authority, and vigilance—along with large, round eyes that suggest constant awareness. Prominent carved teeth and a dramatic lower border of spherical objects enhance its intimidating expression. The elaborate headdress, composed of layered fabrics, a crown of cowrie shells (symbols of wealth and protection), and other accreted materials, denotes ritual potency and social rank. Zakpai Ge masks are typically worn with full costumes and are
accompanied by forceful movement, drumming, and sometimes spoken proclamations. The mask wearer, often part of a male
society, acts as a visible enforcer of norms, using the mask’s visual and performative power to command respect and compliance.

Bwa Plank Mask

$7,000.00

This striking geometric mask is a classic example of a Bwa plank mask, often referred to as a “butterfly mask” due to its broad, wing-like form and symmetrical design. Used in ceremonies by the Bwa people of Burkina Faso and Mali, these masks serve spiritual and social functions during initiation rites, funerals, and agricultural festivals.

The bold black X design across the face symbolizes the path of the ancestors or the crossing of life and death. Circular eye motifs, inset with reflective materials or shells, are believed to possess the power to see into the spiritual world. The addition of tall, abstract horn-like elements and long raffia fiber extensions enhances the mask’s dramatic effect when worn in dance.

Traditionally, the mask is animated during masquerade performances accompanied by music and community gatherings. It is worn with a full-body regalia made of raffia, hiding the dancer’s identity.

Yoruba Beaded Cloak

$8,000.00

This elaborately adorned beaded tunic, also known as an agbada or ceremonial robe, was created by Yoruba artisans
for a high-ranking chief or ritual leader. The garment is richly decorated with intricate beadwork forming symbolic imagery
and vibrant geometric patterns in bold red, green, blue, white, and black hues. Prominent on the robe are stylized figures,
chameleons, abstract human forms, and esoteric symbols, all densely embroidered in glass seed beads.

Beaded garments of this kind are markers of prestige and sacred authority in Yoruba culture. The central cross-like motif,
bordered with cowrie shells—a traditional symbol of wealth and spiritual power—may represent crossroads, divine guidance, or
the king’s power to mediate between realms. The twin lizard figures at the base symbolize adaptability, duality, and mystical
protection. Vertical motifs and symmetrical balance indicate harmony and cosmic order.

Only the most elite, often members of royal courts or powerful religious societies, are entitled to wear such garments. They are
worn during important ceremonies, festivals, and initiations, where visual spectacle reinforces social hierarchy and ancestral lineage.

Please join us on October 12th at 5:00 PM, at the Zuanich Boathouse at the Bellingham Marina. 

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Carved Wooden Water Buffalo 17”x 8” Estimated Value: $225.00

This beautifully carved water buffalo, made of ebony, is a contemporary carving of a traditional art form that accurately depicts one of the most temperamental animals on the African continent.

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Brass Bell ringed with crocodiles and a Bird handle 7.5” x 2.75”

This brass bell shows relief images of crocodile encircling the bell while the handle is that of a standing bird. It is old and quite heavy, with a lovely melodious tone. This comes from the art collection of Milt and Judy Krieger. Estimated Value: $200.00

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Red Baule Mask 23” x 7.5” Estimated Value: $750.00

This lovely Baule mask shows the common mixture of animal and human forms. The curved horns are thought to symbolize the great power of the buffalo. The comb atop her head symbolizes cleanliness and beauty and the combination with the animal horns represents the power and elegance of Baule women. The suggested beard implies that the women can achieve the same wisdom as men. This comes from the private collection of Kathryn Roe.

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Mbang Game Carved Fish 22” x 10.5” Estimated Value: #300.00

This Mbang game, here carved in the shape of a fish, by Bily Qwin Samuel, comes from the art collection of Milt and Judy Krieger. They acquired it in Cameroon in 1995 while doing research there. The rules of the game are included and are similar to other games of capture that are found universally around the world.

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Dogon Standing Woman 24” x 4” Estimated Value $1200.00

This museum quality carved figure derives from the Dogon People in Mali. She shows here the typical elongated body with the face delicately carved in the iconic style that is very recognizable.  We offer this piece from the original art collection of Milt and Judy Krieger. It was acquired by them in Dakar in 1976.

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Sword 28”x 7” Estimated Value: $300.00

We are unclear on the details of this artifact of Africa though there is obvious historical need for weaponry through time. The complexity of the scabbard and overall materials used suggest an owner of some stature but the extravagance also implies that it was ceremonial and most likely from North Africa.

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Male Kente Cloth 78” x 124” Cotton Estimated Value: $1400.00

This old and valuable kente cloth exhibiting classic Ashanti colors was woven to be worn by a man for special occasions. It consists of many strips of fabric woven on small looms that are then sewn together. This is a very fine example of a traditional fabric. Men frequently can be seen wearing these ceremonial Kente cloths. It is the National costume.

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Pottery Oil Lamp 12.5” x 10.5” Estimated Value: $250.00

This unsophisticated, primitive ceramic oil lamp was brought from West Africa.  It is a functional piece that is obviously old.

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Beaded Frog Necklace and Matching Earrings

designed and fabricated by Northwest Artist, Stephanie Roe Estimated Value: $275.00

Neck opening 23” Drop 7.75”

This lovely multi strand necklace features a brass frog amidst green and ivory colored beads that come from both East and West Africa. The unusual conformation of this necklace is technically and aesthetically elegant. There are matching earrings to accompany.

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Stool 20.5 x 9.75” Estimated value: $1600.00

The Ashanti people in Ghana believed that when you die your soul rests in the stool used most often during your life. If you are an important soul, after death your soul stool is housed in the Stool House in the village of your family, with other historically important souls.

This incredibly elegant Ashanti stool was carved by J.K. Mensah, the nephew of the most famous carver in Ghana, Kofi Antebum. The stool is carved from a single piece of wood while the wood is still green and it must be dried under very specific conditions to control for warpage. Kofi Antebum carved the national presidential mace, state seal and the theatre doors of the National theater. He was awarded the title of official artist in 1957. All of this is a powerful legacy being carried forward by J.K Mensah in this beautiful piece.

Please see a 3D image of this beautiful stool here.

Please join us on September 20th at 4:30 PM, at the FEMX Event Center in San Diego, CA. 

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Beaded Cat 13” long x 7” tall Estimated Value $350.00

This contemporary carved cat covered in seed beads combines two traditional art forms into a new one. The elegant slinking form with bright beads over much of the surface is a beautiful success.

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Ashanti Ancestor Worship Figure Pair Estimated Value $850.00

Male: 13.5” x 3.5”

Female: 12.5”x 3”

These two striking male and female figures are old examples of a traditional custom where figures are carved to honor one’s ancestors. They are carved to act as conduits between the physical and spiritual realms. The specifics of their facial features and body scarification indicate they derive from the Akan people. These two come from the personal collection of our founder, Kathryn Roe.

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Necklace: Red, brass and Cream bead Necklace with brass lizard hand crafted by Northwest Artist Stephanie Roe.

Focal disc shell donated by Milt and Judy Krieger.

Neck opening 24.75” with Drop from Neck front 7.5”

Estimated Value: $275.00

This beautiful necklace is constructed of red and ivory colored beads, interspersed with traditional brass beads to feature a large disc on which a brass lizard climbs. It is both technically and aesthetically elegant.

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Yellow Baule Mask 19.5” x 10” Estimated Value: $650.00

This incredible Baule mask shows all the most prized attributes of the female with a small mouth, elegant coiffure and appropriate scarification demonstrating tribal affiliation. The indication of the beard is thought to speak to the belief that the female too could attain the same wisdom as men and achieve status therein. This mask tells an additional story. It was carved in commemoration of the first female accomplished masker of the Baule people in Cote d’Ivoir. Upon her untimely death at age 16, her father requested this specific mask to commemorate the life of his daughter. The mask is always depicted with a yellow face and exceptionally beautiful form

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Nigerian Water Pots in Travel Baskets 19”x 17.5” Pot in presentation ring 18”x 16.5” As seen at the Art Institute in Chicago Estimated Value: $1800.00

These two large clay pots, from the collection of Milt and Judy Krieger, were collected in Cameroon during the later part of the 20^th century. Used to store water, the thick clay would keep the water cool. They are a matched pair differing only in their surface design. Each has a woven basket for their storage or transport as well as a presentation ring. One was damaged and has been repaired. Form and function here combine into beautiful objects of art.

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Crocodile Oware Game 30.75”x 10.5” x 8.5″ high

Estimate Value: $750.00

The Oware board game, here carved as a very large crocodile, is an ancient game dating back thousands of years. Pits for playing were found in the Egyptian tombs in Luxor and Thebes. Known by slightly different names in different regions, it is a count and capture game.  There are in fact more than 200 versions of this game, played throughout Africa, all with slightly different rules. This piece is old and unusual in form.

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Orange and Purple Kente Cloth. One section 38”x 60” and 62”x 44” Estimated Value: $800.00

This vibrant contemporary interpretation of the traditionally colored Kente fabric, is found here in orange and purple and white. It is constructed of long strips of fabric, woven on narrow looms, and then sewn together. Designed for use by a woman, one piece is to be wrapped around their waist and the second to be sewn into a top. Women can currently be seen wearing these, their National Costume, for special occasions. An American interpretation might wrap the skirt with a top and use the second piece as a shawl or wrap.

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Brass Figure Pounding Fufu 7.5” x 2.25”

Estimated Value: $225.00

This old and heavy brass figure of a woman pounding Fufu is fashioned using the “lost wax casting” method. This technique has been used since at least the 1^st of 2^nd millennium BCE in sub-Saharan Africa. It is offered from the collection of Milt and Judy Krieger who spent extensive time in various countries in Africa doing research in the 1970s on.

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Dogan Carved Bone Woman with baby 14.75” x 4.5” Estimated Value: $550.00

This Female figure, shown with a baby tied to her back seems to be carved from a bone. She exhibits stylistic elements found in the work of the Dogon people in Mali and is a touching artifact that demonstrates the profound need to create and leave evidence of our being.

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Kran Mask 22” x 9” Estimated Value $1250.00

This museum quality ceremonial mask of the Kran Tribe of the Ivory Coast is spectacular. The zoomorphic form shows human and monkey attributes. Imagine the power of the forms in action with the articulated jaw guarded by large teeth and tubular protruding eyes. The small figure atop the head is thought to represent the ancestors. The nails imbue power. There is much evidence of tribal use.

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Nigerian Chief’s Beaded Cloak 46”X36”

Estimated Value: $5000.00

This magnificent Nigerian chief’s cloak is a unique acquisition for Anansi in the many years of our collecting articles of interest for sale. We acquired it from a collection that was brought to the US in the 1960’s. The cowry shells are recognized as coinage of their time and region. The represented figures of birds, crocodiles, fish and people are likely visual props for a tribal story shared orally down through time. This piece should rightfully belong in a museum.

Greetings from Ghana.  This report is an attempt to bring those of you who have been involved in our  (as Bob McDonnell calls it) Ambitious Project up to date.  I’ve been here in Mpeasem, Cape Coast, Ghana now for about a month and one half.  Here is what has happened so far:  

The paper work telling the world that Anansi Education owns the property just north of Efutu off the road to Jukwa across from the new hospital is all filed in the proper places and now official.  Whew!  I mention this because it is not uncommon for foreigners to buy property from someone who does not own said property.  We are clear in that regard.

I brought 10,000 dollars to build the wall around the property to secure the place from people who might use the property as their own.  We got three estimates for the cost of the wall around the parameter of our six plots (480 ft by 80 ft).  Non of the estimates came close to our 10,000 U.S. Dollars.   All were higher – even the one from friends who were amateurs at wall building.  It took time, patience, and a bit of badgering until we settled on William Bagidah and  Son Construction Company Ltd.  It will cost 20,000 U.S. Dollars.  I feel comfortable with the decision to work with these people as both Daniel and Kwame assure me they are honest and will do a good job.  The wall should stand as long as a wall can stand.  At the moment they are digging the trench for the foundation of the wall.  They will first build a storage shed so there is a place to keep equipment secure on site and then begin the wall construction.  It should be near completion before I return.

The architects from Accra – Charles, Cyril and Kwame – visited us here in Mpeasem to look at the site, ask questions and gather the information they need to finalize the cost estimate for this project.  I met with them a few weeks ago in Accra to discuss the project.  Lalinatu who is our graduate who will be in charge of the school suggested to me prior to this meeting that we need a playground space and also we need to think about how the way we build the school will impact our status as a private school – A or B or C school.  These young architects said they would need to research those Ghana standards of construction for schools.  

The architects brought a drone to photograph the property from above for purposes of recording elevations and everything on the site.  Thousands of photos were taken, we had good conversation and will get  together again in Accra just before my trip back to Bellingham the end of this month.  Charles is interested in and has a collection of African Art.  He has offered to put me in touch with a friend of his who has much of what we enjoy at our auctions for sale.  And, he has offered to give us a piece from his collection for our auction this year.  They seem genuinely interested in what we are doing and how we are doing it.

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I want to tell you about the Ghanaians who will be in charge of the project after completion; here are a few short profiles I want to share with you all.

Daniel Osei

Daniel’s official position in Anansi Education is as “Managing Director”.  He has been serving in this capacity for the past six and one half years.  He is now in charge of every aspect of Anansi’s program in Ghana. He hires an Anansi graduate to help with his job for two years prior to pursuing an advanced degree.  They work together to inform students in small remote villages about our program, select our students, buy and distribute school items and provisions for our students and plan and run our important “Host and Teach” program. That program, which is now the core of our work, was Daniel’s concept. Both Daniel and his assistant are extremely involved with the performance and well being of our students. 

In 2007 Daniel became an Anansi student graduating from Assin Manso in 2011 with the highest exit examination score possible.  He was granted a Master Card  Foundation Scholarship to attend Ashesi University in 2012.  He graduated from Ashesi in 2016 with a degree in Management Information Systems after which he moved to Nigeria for a job with Tendy Nigeria Co. Ltd.  He served first as Assistant Manager and was promoted to Store Manager.  Late in 2017 he returned to Ghana to accept the Managing Director job with Anansi.

Christine Meyer, a visiting tourist/teacher in our Host and Teach program, described Daniel as a “force of nature”.  He is.

Kwame Annan

“Let’s Go Tours” is the name of Kwame’s car rental and tourism business which has been in operation since 2001.  It is a small successful business in which he does most of the driving and tour guiding.  

Kwame graduated from Suhum Secondary Technical High School with a major in science in 1995 after which he taught school in junior and basic government schools for five years. He is married with three children.

Since the very beginning of Anansi Education Kwame has been involved as a primary support person.  He managed the paper work involved when Anansi became an official Ghanaian NGO in 2005 and today he is the one in charge of the paper work necessary for the purchase of the land for Anansi’s current  project.  His interest in and support of Anansi over the years  has been steady and strong.

Lalinatu Ibrahim

   Right now (February 2024) Lalina is looking for a job teaching elementary school.  She recently graduated from Cape Coast University with honors.  She was granted “First Class Honors” and “Best Graduating In Childhood Education”.  Her grade point at graduation was 3.9.  While waiting for government school jobs to open up, she is spending time with her ten year old son, Abdul,  at her sister Falaila’s house here in Mpeasem.  She stops in to help out with Anansi’s “Host and Teach” program occasionally. Lalina is applying for a teaching position in a good private school as she waits for a government job.

With encouragement and help from her sister Falaila (one of Anansi’s first six students in 2005) Lalinatu became an Anansi Student in 2014.  She graduated from Ghana National High School in General Arts in 2017.  She worked as Daniel’s Assistant for one and one half years until she had enough money to attend University.  She graduated from Cape Coast University with honors in 2022 holding a degree in Childhood Education.  While in attendance at the University, Lalina worked for a professor of  statistics sitting in on lectures and grading student papers. Her Government Service year was spent teaching in a small rural school in the village of Batanya near Assin Foso.

Lalinatu Ibrahim is devoted to the education of small children and her long term goal is to run a good, modern, state of the art basic school in Ghana.  She is very interested in Anansi’s plan for a basic school and is already giving advice about the “A” school physical requirements. 

Seidu Ibrahim

While Seidu is looking for a professional job he has created his own “on line” business selling phones, ear buds and computers.  As a start up business it is doing well.  Seidu is well organized and  knowledgeable.  He lives at the Anansi House in Mpeasem and does more than his share of maintenance and up keep of the house and grounds.

Seidu attended Ghana National High School graduating in 2017  with a degree in General Arts. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology and Geography in 2021.  You can read more about Seidu on our website at:  http://anansieducation.org/?p=1496.

There are more Ghanaian people very involved with Anansi:  Mohammed who was our first paid employee of Anansi who is now interested in a personal involvement with the new restaurant, Suzanne Bulver, retired head mistress of Kubease School, now teaching in a private school, Eric Mensah, a long time resident of the Anansi House in Mpeasem who is now teaching in a small village near here, and Matilda Nunoo, who is Daniel’s new assistant now living in the Anansi House.  Matilda is the light of my life at the moment as she keeps my kitchen cleaner than it has ever been.  She will be here for two years before heading on to school to become a midwife.  Cecilia, the first woman I met in Cape Coast back in 1998.  She serves on our board and runs the restaurant for Baobob, a German non profit here in Cape Coast. 

As you can tell, there are many wonderful people here ready and willing to help with this project once we get it going.  In other words:  It will be in good hands.

In past years when tuition fees were high for high school students in Ghana, Madamfo funded 17 Anansi/Madamfo students to increase the number of young people we were able to serve. Welcome back, Madamfo, and a warm large thank you for your interest and faith in our program and our students and for making it possible for these graduates to reach their potential. Medase Peeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Meet the students receiving these generous scholarships:

Please join us on November 4th at 4:30 PM, at the Encore Room at the Mt. Baker Theatre in Bellingham, WA. 

Necklace 24” Stunning multi strand Ghanian beaded necklace. It includes small brass beads made in Cote d’Ivoire, Ghanian multi colored clay beads, some of them old. Value: $150.00

Large Beaded Giraffe 27” tall

This large contemporary carved giraffe, covered in colorful beads, stands guard with a humorous head tilt and alertness that makes you smile.  Notice the beautiful curved line running up the center back and outer neck as well as up the chest and around under the chin. This curve gives unusual life and elegance. Value: $350.00

Modern Bee Mask 20” tall X 10” wide

This large contemporary mask is a modern interpretation of a traditional Zaire Song Ye “bee” carving. The term “mask” is more than the facial artifact as western people imagine. It is a reflection of the entire story and dance that is being told. It is graphically bold and nicely carved by an older man in a shop in Aburi. Value: $400.00

Yaa Asantewaa Figure 31 inches tall

When the British came to conquer the Ashanti Empire. The men were afraid to fight the British, so Yaa Assatewaa led the men into battle to fight for their homeland. The British conquered them and colonized the area. Value $800.00

Hand Carved Ghanian Djembe Drum 24.5” tall X 16” in Diameter at the drum head

This hand carved drum, was brought directly from Ghana by Kathryn Roe. It was selected by Kofi Klumke, an internationally recognized professional Ghanian drummer. It has a one-piece solid body and a premium skin head. This style of drum originates from the Mali Empire of the 12th century. Value: $600.00

Mali Amber Necklace 21.5 Inches

This necklace is a stunning example of the metal and amber work done by craftsmen in Mali. A beautiful piece of amber has been worked by riveting two offset pieces of metal, one silver and one brass against a solid disc backing. The gorgeous, unusually large, centerpiece hangs from a traditional braided leather cord and anyone would wear this with pride.

Value: $300.00

Kran Mask  21 “tall

This museum quality ceremonial mask of the Kran Tribe of the Ivory Coast is spectacular. The zoomorphic form shows human and monkey attributes. Imagine the power of the forms in action with the articulated jaw guarded by large teeth and tubular protruding eyes. The small figure atop the head is thought to represent the ancestors. The nails are thought to imbue power. There is much evidence of tribal use. Value: $2500.00

Woman’s Kente Cloth Skirt 64”X41.5”

This contemporary, hand woven, traditional kente cloth was fabricated on the historically typical narrow looms that result in long strips of cloth. These strips are then sewn together to create a large piece of fabric. This piece is intended to be used as a woman’s wrap around skirt.  It is the traditional Ashanti colors and weave.  However, if this is not to your fashion sense, it could be used as a table cloth or wall hanging!!  It is a donation from Pam Reitan, purchased when she was visiting Ghana recently and traveling with our Anansi students in a village near Kumasi. Value: $250.00

Multi Figured Dogan Mask with Outstretched arms holding Spoon and Fork

This incredible mask is stylistically clearly of the Dogon people from Mali, an ancient tribe known for their elaborate ceremonial masks used for celebratory dances. The woman’s gesture with outstretched arms reaching skyward is usually interpreted as one of prayer and an effort to link earth and heaven. It has also been suggested that it might represent an appeal for rain. Anthropologists and art curators throughout the world know of Dogon masks. This piece has signs of use and age that indicate it was not produced for tourist trade. Valued at: $1200.00

Elephant Painting by B. Mensah Bonsu 2023 40”X32” Acrylic

 This painting is the quintessential African image; A large African elephant challenging you! The bold colors will command any space and his direct eye contact demands a meeting of the mind! What a joy this would be to live with!! Value: $700.00

Ghanaian women in head ties and long cotton skirts weave through the crowded trotro station selling supplies for the journey. On their heads they balance round trays of their wares: kenkey, fermented white corn paste that’s wrapped in leaves and swallowed whole; mountains of salt-encrusted boiled eggs with tiny dabs of hot sauce on the side; cellophane plantain chip packets; loaves of bread; and plastic water sachets. Most of us shake our heads or use the Fanti word for no, dabi.

I’ve come to Ghana at the invitation of my friend Kathryn, to drop in on her world. She’s in the business of changing lives, hundreds of them, through Anansi Education, the foundation she started fifteen years ago to put Ghanaian kids through high school. Kathryn is 89 and doesn’t muck about.

The road to Kathryn’s house looks like a pump track, better suited to mountain bikes than taxis. Red dirt bears evidence of rainy seasons past, rivers of mud eroded, redirected, then sun-hardened into furrows and gullies.

Anansi alumni Eric, Seidu, Daniel and Sarah are already at Anansi House. Eric is a new university graduate, about to take up a teaching position. When he shows me around M’peasem, he tells me the word for the road’s rutted ruggedness is nungunungu.

Anansi’s Managing Director, Daniel Osei, is a force of nature who graduated from Ghana’s first Liberal Arts college, Ashesi University. He works and often sleeps in the Anansi office in what used to be Kathryn’s garage. Among the many hats he wears, Daniel manages applications for Anansi’s secondary school assistance. More than three hundred kids applied for next year’s scholarships, but there’s only money for thirty-nine. To help winnow the pool, Daniel makes home visits to assess applicants’ needs and living situations. That is what he planned to do for a few days–until another force of nature changes his plans.

In an epic rain event, Ghana receives a three-day deluge. Gully-washing torrents destroy roads and turn villages into islands, disrupting transport everywhere. Now I get how nungunungu happens.

It’s two days until sixteen mostly-math-and-science-track students come for Host and Teach. Host and Teach is Daniel’s brainchild. Nearly every month, he holds intensive retreats for current students. While better-off classmates spend school holidays with families, these kids will have two weeks to hit the books.

You should know when you visit Kathryn that she has a way of seeing how you can be useful, matching skills to visitors so everybody benefits. She told me I could maybe help the students with writing. It wouldn’t take much of my time. Sure, I said. Happy to help.

Friday morning I awake feeling a little otherworldly, disoriented. I’m running even warmer than my usually sweaty state and somehow my skin fits too tightly. A few hours later the clinic confirms that I have malaria.

Returning from the clinic, I join students make their way up the nungunungu road sporting clean Anansi t-shirts, carrying cotton knapsacks or a burlap bag full of yams. At the porch they shed umbrellas and slip off plastic shoes to come inside. Seidu, Anansi alumnus and fresh university graduate, gives them each a COVID test. After a hot meal prepared by alumna Sarah, they can rest. Kathryn’s two spare bedrooms will serve as dormitories: Ten boys in one, six girls in another. All of us need rest.

I’m sleeping, fevered and fitfully, when the lights snap on at 5 am. The students have begun their day with equally fevered sweeping and cleaning. I go back to sleep. By the time I have recovered, Host and Teach is in full swing.

As soon as it’s light enough, students take their places at tables in what used to be Kathryn’s driveway for two hours of math instruction. What follows breakfast is another nine hours of enrichment: Chemistry, Physics, Social Science, more Math. Teaching eight hours of basic subjects isn’t enough for Daniel. He slips in what he considers essential classes: Ethics, Career Development, Public Speaking, Programming.

The kids are all in and happy about it, seriously happy about school. They’re eager, astute, hardworking sponges intent on taking advantage of this opportunity. It feels urgent.

Assignment #1: What is your name and your story?

English has been their language of instruction since they began school. They’ve learned to spell words properly and accept whatever grade is given. No one taught these kids to write.

I tell them writing is a process, pass out composition books and erasable pens. Florence, Benjamin, Naomi, Francis and Francis, Dawuud, Mavis, Winnifred, Kelvin, Lameen, Samuel, Ephraim, Solomon, Prince, Clementina, Festus, and Raphael communicate in a language that is not their mother tongue, using the stiff construction of a textbook with only a nod to grammar and punctuation.

I write them each a letter to show how to critique supportively, but there’s a lot more to say. Their compositions are the basis for each new lesson.
Verbs must agree; people must agree.
They eat it up.

Kathryn says nobody ever asks about their lives, hopes, opinions, dreams. When I ask, sentences pour out like Ghana’s rain event, run-ons that mimic the voice of an excited teen. These sentences could run until they reached the sea, right through the Door of No Return.

Next lesson.

“And, and, and, and . . .” I chant, shaking my head. “. . . dabi, dabi, dabi,”

Just say No to run-on sentences.

“So, so, so, so…” I sing. I wait.

“Dabi, dabi, dabi.” They sing back, laughing, confident, eyes bright. Someone is finally explaining the rules. They’re getting the hang of it. It doesn’t take much.

Together, we tame unfettered heaps of words.

A paragraph, I say, is like a camel train of sentences. An overburdened camel will sink to its knees, unable to continue, and hobble those behind him in the train.

I, too, am speaking a new language.

The next time they hand in their notebooks, concise thoughts are clearly punctuated.

Well-mannered sentences respect what will come after, then end gracefully. No camels have been harmed.

Assignment #2. Write about a journey that you took or hope to take.

Past and future tense, conditional. Conditional means the outcome is uncertain, no matter how much faith you have.

Your dream, your hope, your desire, your wish. It’s not enough to use the future tense, then add God willing.

I could, I would, I might.

If only.

None of them expected to afford the cost of secondary school. They understand that passing means they won’t starve.

Perhaps, perhaps. . . .

Now they dream of careers in engineering, medicine, ophthalmology, entrepreneurship, education, cybersecurity. Common to them all is immense faith. Anansi can give them a taste for miracles, but there’s only enough money for three university scholarships.

What about the rest?

It wouldn’t take much.

Assignment #3. What experience changed who you are inside?

The stories that pour out of them are harrowing. Hazing at secondary school. Sexual abuse. Betrayal. Death of many parents. Despair. Nungunungu childhood.

They share what they have not put into words before. I’m flabbergasted by their trials. Are these the same kids who seem to be always laughing? My heart is breaking for them. They write matter-of-factly about the tiny miracles that brought them to this new world. A stranger’s words. One person’s compassion.

And something keeps them going, still keen to learn.

Two years ago, when they sat their Junior High School exams, secondary school was only a dream. They didn’t lack intelligence or diligence, only money. It didn’t take much. Two hundred and fifty dollars meant the difference between following their dreams and a lifetime in the market selling yams and kenkey.

It doesn’t take much.

Assignment #4. Write a funny story.

Perhaps we ought to lighten up.

At first their tales elicit chuckles, then giggling fits, then they convulse me with laughter. But my work has become serious. They must succeed.

“I and my friends” a story often begins.

Next lesson.

Put Others First, I admonish.

They already know. In the evenings, after fourteen hours of classes, they help each other with assignments.

By now, I’m all in, too. There’s so much I can do before I leave yet so little. I set up final office hours to give them personal encouragement. My broken heart overflows with compassion. I urgently want their success. To teach young people who are ravenous to learn, for whom so little means so much gives me joy, optimism, maybe a belief in miracles. It didn’t take much.

Thank you Florence, Benjamin, Naomi, Francis and Francis, Dawuud, Mavis, Winnifred, Kelvin, Lameen, Samuel, Ephraim, Solomon, Prince, Clementina, Festus, and Raphael for your hospitality. You trusted me with your inner lives and generously shared your authentic selves, hosting and teaching me. It has been an honor.

   I’ve known Kwame since I arrived in Ghana nearly 20 years ago.  Kwame was and is my driver.  He has been helpful in every aspect of our Anansi efforts to help village children go to high school and according to Ghana protocol, we owe him. “You (Anansi) must send Seidu to high school”, he told me.  But Seidu’s test results were far from qualifying for a government high school, so I said, “Kwame, we cannot do that because he does not meet our criteria.”  After some back and forth conversation we agreed that Seidu would sleep in my house on the single bed in the hallway and go back to junior high school for one year and retake the high school entrance exam the following year. Mohammed and John both lived in the two rooms in the boys quarters, so they could help him with his studies.

   The night before Seidu came to live in my house I lay awake in bed thinking “What have you done?  You have just invited a 17 year old boy to live in your house when all you know about him is that he “needs discipline.”  I was awake for a long uncomfortable time.  I needn’t have worried.  Seidu was a delight to have in the house.  He immediately pitched in doing his share of the household chores, but more importantly he laughed at my jokes at the dinner table.  Actually, there was a time or two that he laughed so hard at me (he had never known a non Ghanaian woman before) that he had to leave the dinner table. Seidu quickly became a part of our household and both Mohammed and John helped him with his studies.  Mohammed took him back to grade one in mathematics so he could start building his skills over again.  “Somewhere along the way he missed some things.”  Mohammed told me.

   After the first year at our house in Mpeasem, Seidu not only did a great job on his exit exams from Kubease Junior High School, but went on as an Anansi student to high school at Ghana National, one of the best high schools in Ghana, where his academic work got better and better each year.  He then went to the University of Cape Coast where he recently earned a degree in Social Sciences.  

   Seidu is a vital part of our Anansi family and this place would not function as well without him.  Among other things he is our “go to” technical man.  Whenever anyone has a problem with their phone, the TV or their computer, they always rely on Seidu to fix it or show them how it works.  He is also a good cook, he sings as he works around the house and functions well as a tour guide for our guests.  This past year he accompanied my grand niece, Kameron Reitan, on her public transportation trip to Mole Park in northern Ghana.

   Jobs are not easy to find in Ghana if you don’t know someone important to help promote you, so at the moment, in an effort to keep busy while looking for his permanent professional job, Seidu is making plans to open a phone shop called  “Swishy’s Phones”.  Swishy is the name given to him by Megan Galley when she was our guest in Ghana.  While typing Seidu’s name on her computer, the auto correct corrected Seidu to “Swishy”.  Megan began calling Seidu Swishy, Seidu used the name as his handle on Facebook and now it has evolved to the name of his soon to be functioning phone shop. 

   We are all very proud of who Seidu has become and of his accomplishments.