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Ghanian Coffin Maker to Host Workshops as Library’s Artist in Residence

Madison, WI –  Carpenter and coffin designer, Eric Adjetey Anang invites the public to learn a thing or two about woodworking, hand tools, and Ghana’s sacred tradition of building coffins. Anang will host open studios throughout the month of April as part of his artist residency with the Bubbler at Madison Public Library.

Anang is a Ghanian sculptor and fantasy coffin carpenter. He was born in Teshie, Ghana where he lives and runs Kane Kwei Carpentry Workshop. Anang took over the workshop after his grandfather passed away, determined to revive the business and preserve his family’s name. The coffins, known as abebuu adekai or “proverb boxes,” are functional pieces designed to reflect a person’s stature in the community, or their likes and interests. 

All are welcome to visit Anang during open studio times in the Bubbler Room at Central Library to explore the craft of woodworking, get familiar with different hand tools, and learn more about the tradition of coffin making. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Following his April residency at Central Library, Anang will head to Pinney Library where he will hold additional open studio sessions from May through July.

Open Studio Schedule:

APRIL at Central Library
Friday, April 13 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Bubbler
Saturday, April 14 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Bubbler
Friday, April 20 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Bubbler
Friday, April 27 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Bubbler
Saturday, April 28 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Bubbler

MAY, JUNE, and JULY at Pinney Library
Saturday, May 19 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room
Saturday, May 26 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room
Saturday, June 16 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room
Saturday, June 23 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room
Saturday, July 7 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room
Saturday, July 14 from 12:00-4:30pm in the Community Room

More information available at madisonbubbler.org/artist-in-residence

The Bubbler's foundational Artist-in-Residence program connecting artists to the community and the community to artists is funded by Scooter Software, Inc.

About Madison Public Library
Madison Public Library’s tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for more than 140 years.  Nine locations throughout the City of Madison are open six days per week and welcome over 2.2 million visits each year. For more information, visit madisonpubliclibrary.org, Madison Public Library on Facebook, @madisonlibrary on Twitter, and @madisonpubliclibrary on Instagram.

About The Bubbler at Madison Public Library
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library is a hub for creative expression amongst people of all ages through art creation and appreciation, engagement with new and old-school technology, and hands-on making. For more information, visit madisonbubbler.org, Madison Bubbler on Facebook, or @madisonbubbler on Twitter. 

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