Wings of empowerment
Monkeybiz is a non-profit project that brings together over 200 women to create colourful, hand-stitched, 3D beadwork objects rooted in South African culture. The social enterprise is based in Cape Town and was founded in 2000 by Mathapelo Ngaka-Mtati and the late Barbara Jackson to help women become financially independent. The venture simultaneously helps to preserve and revitalise traditional beading heritage in South Africa, while making it relevant for contemporary audiences. Monkeybiz’s work is characterised by bold designs and unexpected forms that reflect the spirit, resilience and vibrant culture of the communities in which the artists live and work.
Monkeybiz provides a platform for the bead artisans to become artists in their own right. Each piece is a one-off creation that is signed by the artisan. This ensures that individual artists are celebrated and receive recognition for their work within a collective story. All profits from the sale of beaded objects are reinvested into the studio and the community. The women are offered ongoing training in design, colour theory, technique development and entrepreneurial skills. Monkeybiz also collaborates with local and international artists to explore new forms and expand the creative potential of beadwork.
Where
Monkeybiz
