Telling stories in soapstone
- Welcome turned a childhood hobby into a lifelong craft
- His pieces are defined by unique colour patterns
- Coming from a family of craftspeople, he turned to stone carving
Welcome Mashaba is a self-taught stone carver who transforms soapstone into espresso cups, bowls and timeless homeware. From a young age, he was determined to build something of his own. "I carved my first fish and tortoise stone at age nine. From that moment, I knew craft was my path," he says. Each piece begins with selecting the right stone, as soapstone varies in softness, colours and textures – elements that guide the design. Welcome's works stand out for their precision and shading. "Soapstone is more than material. It is my livelihood, my self-expression and my family's future," he explains. His works are showcased with several other Eswatini craft studios, such as Ngwenya Glass, Swazi Candles and Malandela’s Lifestyle Centre. Welcome regularly takes part in the country's Bushfire festival craft fairs.
Interview
- When did you first discover your talent for carving?
- When I was nine years old, I shaped animals from stone with my hands. I quickly realised that this was something special. Compared to other jobs I had, carving gave me joy, better rewards and a sense of pride. From then on, I knew this craft would carry me through life.
- Why do you use soapstone?
- Soapstone is a gift from nature, free from harmful elements. Each piece has different colours and patterns, as though painted by nature. I like being able to shape soapstone into almost anything, and when I hold it, I can visualise what it can become. I just work until the piece reveals itself.
- What is your favourite piece?
- I like my espresso cup sets. They are small but very demanding, because each cup has to look the same. Still, I always like to leave a tiny, unique mark so no two are ever truly identical. The mystery in making them is what I enjoy most, and customers tell me they feel special owning a set that no one else in the world has.
- What achievement are you proud of?
- This craft has allowed me to support my family and children. Seeing my products sold at successful Eswatini craft stores makes me proud. I am also grateful to take part in the country’s Bushfire festival, an annual celebration of Eswatini’s best artists, artisans and entrepreneurs.
Welcome Mashaba is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1994
Where
Welcome Mashaba
