Founded by Marcia Nangy O’Connell in 2003, Dathonga Designs blends modern design with traditional Mozambican crafts. Honouring the past, this Mozambican brand is committed to preserving indigenous knowledge and skills while designing for contemporary living. We caught up with Marcia to find out more about Dathonga.
Why is important to showcase the work of local artisans?
At Dathonga, showcasing local artisans is not just about creating beautiful products; it’s about our cultural preservation, women’s empowerment, community development, and celebrating the heart and soul of Mozambican craftsmanship. This is important for us.
Briefly tell us about the weaving technique called Sipatsi.
Sipatsi means “handbag” in Gitonga, but it is more than just a functional object. Distinctive features of Sipatsi weaving include captivating colour transformations and emerging plane patterns. Tonga women introduced alternating colours in both weaving directions, creating a mesmerising visual dance. Twill-plaited baskets with vibrant, hand-dyed strands alternating with natural-coloured ones showcase the weavers’ experimentation.
Sipatsi embodies an intersection of mathematics and art, tradition and innovation. It’s a testament to the Vatonga people’s artistry and our deep connection to mathematics and geometric forms. Described as “weaving music,” Sipatsi products are a symphony of cultural heritage and creative expression.
What is the significance of indigenous African weaving traditions in your work?
By incorporating Sipatsi into our Dathonga Designs, we not only honour our ancestors but also contribute to the ongoing exploration of this mathematical marvel. We believe that preserving and promoting Sipatsi is crucial for both the cultural and intellectual enrichment of our society.
The Xirrundzu/Fine Coil technique is equally significant. Its circular form symbolises the cyclical nature of life, reflecting our ancestors’ deep-rooted spiritual beliefs and their harmonious relationship with the environment. It’s a reminder of our interconnectedness with all living things and the importance of sustainability.
The Phila/Sawed braid coil technique, though less explored in our collections thus far, holds immense potential. Its use in creating floor mats and carpets demonstrates its practicality and durability. We believe that this technique, too, deserves greater recognition and preservation.
These weaving traditions are not merely aesthetic elements; they are carriers of knowledge, stories, and values. They represent the ingenuity and wisdom of generations past. By preserving these traditions, we ensure that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate, learn from, and build upon this rich cultural heritage. Dathonga Designs is committed to playing a role in this preservation process, while also innovating and reinterpreting these techniques for contemporary audiences.
Tell us about the colouring and dyeing methods, and processes used.
Some of our products are coloured with traditional natural dyes from plants and rust, or dyes that have been sustainably sourced from elsewhere.
What criteria do you use when choosing the raw palm material?
At Dathonga Designs, we have traditional ways of choosing the raw palm material used by our ancestors to create products. We focus primarily on two indigenous Mozambican palms: the Ilala palm, known for its exceptional strength and flexibility, and the wild date palm, prized for its finer texture suitable for intricate details. Our skilled artisans work closely with palm suppliers, drawing on their years of experience to assess factors like the palm frond’s maturity, natural colour variations, and texture. This collaborative approach ensures each palm frond is perfectly suited for its intended purpose in the final product. Sustainability is a core value at Dathonga Designs. We prioritise ethically sourced palms, working directly with local growers who implement responsible harvesting practices.
Are there challenges and difficulties using these raw materials?
Not really.
How do you infuse sustainability into your practice?
By weaving sustainability into every aspect of our business, Dathonga Designs strives to create beautiful products while minimising our impact on the planet.
What are the most fulfilling parts of the work you do?
Witnessing transformation. There are many fulfilling aspects to our work at Dathonga Designs, but witnessing the personal growth of our artisans is truly inspiring. Stories like Assucena Jacinto Fernando embody the transformative power of our mission. Seeing her journey from a humble dwelling to a brick house, with the ability to send her children to better schools, fills us with immense satisfaction.
Dathonga Designs isn’t just about creating beautiful products; it’s about empowering individuals and families. Assucena’s journey exemplifies the ripple effect of our work, impacting not just her life but also the future of her children. Her smile of achievement becomes a symbol of hope and opportunity for the entire community.
What challenges do you face running a business?
Running a small business in Mozambique, particularly one focused on social impact like Dathonga Designs, presents unique challenges. Here are some of the key hurdles you navigate:
Limited access to funding: growth often requires investment in training, equipment, and expanding your team. Accessing adequate funding can be a challenge, hindering the ability to empower more women and scale your positive impact.
Infrastructure hurdles: Mozambique’s infrastructure can pose logistical difficulties. This might include limited access to reliable power sources or efficient transportation networks, which can affect production and distribution.
Shipping costs: As a small brand, negotiating competitive shipping rates can be difficult. This can limit your global reach and impact your profitability. Despite these challenges, Dathonga Designs remains dedicated to its mission.
What African sustainable and ethical brands do you admire?
Marcia Nangy O’Connell is the founder of Dathonga Designs
- To find out more about Dathonga Designs follow them on Instagram
- Feature image sourced from Facebook
- The rest of the images supplied
