The masterful handicraft of wild tamarind and jumbie bead seedwork was a dying art,
with only five women left in the world to create it until Botanique Studios.
Botanique is putting Antiguan and Barbudan seedwork,
a tradition whose African origins have transcended its challenging past
on to the global stage.
Our artisan products are imbued with a message that is
as beautiful, empowering, and profound as the craft itself.
Rare and Authentic Seedwork
Our extraordinary products are botanical masterpieces unique to the twin-island Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda.These scenic islands have a past binding its people to a history of enslavement. As exemplified by Botanique products, traditional artisanship is one of few remaining intangible cultural skills that keep the island’s heritage alive.
Only 5 master artisans are left and are training the next generation of Antiguan and Barbudan craftspersons. They will continue the legacy of creating these beautiful complex patterns of wild tamarind and jumbie bead seeds sewn together to make spider web patterns for jewelry, fashion items, and household decor.
Botanique Empowerment Dolls
The dolls presented in our product line are adapted from traditional Antiguan and Barbudan dolls and re-branded as “Botanique Empowerment Dolls.” These dolls reflect the African heritage of Antigua and Barbuda, and many other Caribbean islands. They are also referred to as topsy-turvy dolls in many parts of the Caribbean since they are reversible. Honoring our heritage our doll wears the official national dress constructed primarily of Antiguan and Barbudan madras, a lightweight cotton fabric with a patterned texture, and tartan design with red, gold, and green.
The negative connotations of the doll’s predecessor, which was also known as a ‘Mammy Doll’ because she was burdened with black children on one side and white children, presumably sired by their enslavers, on the other side. In contrast, Botanique’s progressive version of the doll holds a book, laptop or mobile phone.
In alignment with the Botanique's core philosophy, we include members of the disability community in our initiative. They will assist in producing these dolls as we engage on a fully inclusive platform.
Empowering Women, Safeguarding Traditions, Sustaining the Economy, Building Bridges to Our Past, One Seed At A Time.
We design each collection intending to create pieces that can be passed down through generations with stories that outlast the test of time. But before the story can begin, there are always queries.
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