Eric Adjetey Anang

APRIL - AUGUST 2018 RESidency

ERIC ADJETEY ANANG is a Ghanaian sculptor and fantasy coffin carpenter. He was born in Teshie, Ghana, where he lives and runs the Kane Kwei Carpentry Workshop. During his time in Madison as the Bubbler artist-in-residence, Eric will be interacting with the public through hosting workshops on woodworking with hand tools, while creating his next life-size wooden coffin.

Individuals of all ages are welcome to visit the library and explore the craft of woodworking, try using a variety of different hand tools, and learn more about the sacred tradition of designer coffin making. Drop in during Eric's open studio times in the coming months. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

RESIDENCY SCHEDULE

APRIL at Central Library
Friday 4/13: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Bubbler
Saturday 4/14: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Bubbler
Friday 4/20: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Bubbler
Friday 4/27: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Bubbler
Saturday 4/28: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Bubbler

MAY, JUNE, and JULY at Pinney Library

Saturday, 5/19: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Community Room
Saturday, 5/26: Open Studio from 12-4:30 in the Community Room
Saturday 6/16, 6/23, 7/ 7, 7/14: Open Studio CANCELED

AUGUST - NEW DATES AND WRAP-UP PARTY!

MORE ABOUT THE ARTIST
Eric was born in Teshie, where he grew up in the compound where his family's workshop is located. At eight years old, he began helping around the workshop, learning the tools of the trade that have supported his family throughout his life. As he completed Senior High School he didn't know what to do next. Eric could have started university, but instead he chose to honor his family's legacy and join the family business by working as an apprentice.

When his grandfather passed away, the shop had started to go downhill as bills pilled up and former apprentices embarked on their own businesses. Eric decided to pour his heart into the shop and see if he could turn it around. At age 20, he took over the shop because of determination not to let his grandfather's name die. It has been a worthwhile investment. Over time, as Ghana's economy has improved, tourism grows, and interest in our traditions has resurged, the shop is slowly reclaiming its glory days.

Eric's grandfather used to say “always in this world, whatever position or wherever you may be, you should always have something in your finger tips. When I am gone, I am gone with my knowledge. And that will be the time people will see your knowledge too.” Eric hopes that that time is now, and that he can share the work of his family with the rest of the world.

Read more about Eric's work in Madison here and his current exhibition in Iowa City here.