Creativity is Not Inherited, It’s Learnt

Craft training started on the 15^th and 16^th of August in Migyeera and Nabbingo respectively, the artisans were eager to learn from their new trainer (Miss. Flavia). As a training strategy the trainer critiqued the Artisans who have been producing trays and baskets all along to know their weaknesses and strengths, for those who had never made these items she taught them putting emphasis on the principles and basics of making a creatively woven craft piece starting with the star basket in Migyeera and the bullseye tray in Nabbingo.

Above; the trainer shows the participants how to star the star basket

 

 

The Artisans kept on making inquiries every step they made so that they don’t make any mistakes; they worked hard in their quest to master the craft.

Participant being shown the next step

 

 Learning is a great experience; most Artisans surprised themselves for they did not know their true potential in crafts making, when you’re willing to learning, practice and work hard, the sky is the limit.  By the time we left everyone had started their own star basket.

 

 





 

The participants start the star basket with guidance from the trainer

 

The participants in Nabbingo working and getting assistance from the trainer

 

It made me proud the following week when most of the Artisans came with finished baskets,

 

The Artisans pose for photos with their baskets

 

one of them went further to use the acquired skill in her craft pieces (Harvest basket); she owned the design and made a unique piece of craft,

 Kyakuwa Cissy tries the Star design on one of her famous Harvest baskets

 Also in Nabbingo one of the participants worked hard and was able to make six(6) bullseye trays that were sent in the last shipment.

 

 

 

Nassali Mary works hard to finish the last of her six trays 

 

This proved that training doesn’t only broaden their skills but also nurtures their creative minds helping them to think outside the box instead of confining themselves to only that which they have been taught. Using the skills to try out different products enables the Artisans create new unique designs and items.

 

By; Clair Namukwaya

Micro Enterprise Program officer
(Crafts & Tailoring) CALU