Check out these throw pillows. Talk about fabulous colors and patterns. I flipped when I found them at the ARTisan Café. Measuring 20 x 20 inches and priced from $15 to $35, they're made of batik and wax prints imported from Africa and handmade by Daffina and xnasozi.
The ARTisan Café is in Stony Point Fashion Park, and it's dedicated to showcasing the works of independent artisans and businesses. Their goal is to introduce artists — and they feature about 50 — to our community.
Two of these artists are the creative forces behind the pillows I’ve pictured.
Jessica Nicol is the creator of Daffina, a line she created in 2012 in Washington, D.C. She is a Sierra Leonean-American, and her home décor items, including the pillows above, celebrate her love for vibrant African fabrics and textiles.
Nasozi Kakembo recognizes her African roots in her products, as well. Her company, xnasozi, is all about wax print interior décor. Half-Ugandan, Nasozi was especially inspired by a trip she took to Senegal two years ago, and her pillows, curtains, aprons, journals and $5 bottle bags (which are also available at ARTisan Café), are upbeat, inspiring and elegant.
A Shopping Affair
See more items from Daffina and xnasozi, along with art and accessories from 30 more artists, at theARTisan Café’s "Taste of the ARTs" event Saturday, June 14. Dubbed a “shopping affair,” the event will be held on the observation deck at City Hall from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
