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Accept CookiesRead about how we use cookiesIf you've recently visited our stunning bee kraal, you might have been captivated by the elegant Zulu hut-shaped structures that house our Brahman bees. This unique circular kraal, featuring a central fountain, is adorned with 16 beautifully crafted huts, each serving as a cozy home for our industrious bee colonies. These exquisite ceramic beaded huts, created with recycled clay, are the result of meticulous craftsmanship by skilled artisans from the local Port Alfred community.
The story behind these remarkable bee huts is as inspiring as the structures themselves. Mud Studio, founded by Philippa du Toit in 1999, has been a beacon of creativity and community support. Philippa met her husband Werner the same year, and together they embarked on a journey to build a successful studio that would also serve as a vehicle for job creation and skill transfer in a region where unemployment and poverty are very high.
Despite growing international demand, Philippa and Werner have steadfastly resisted the lure of mass production. Their commitment to working closely with local artisans reflects their dedication to preserving traditional craft and supporting their community. Mud Studio's philosophy is rooted in providing meaningful employment and transferring valuable skills in an environment where they are desperately needed.
Over the past 15 years, Mud Studio has evolved into an internationally acclaimed and award-winning name, celebrated for its handmade items. Their creations are showcased in prestigious boutique stores around the world.
Mud Studio's commitment to sustainability extends beyond their immediate community.They are dedicated to creating jobs and staying ahead by developing new products that are copied across the country and the world, thus indirectly generating additional employment opportunities. Mud Studio has been a beacon of hope and innovation for many.
They produce handcrafted beads from recycled clay, embodying Mud Studio's humanitarian and environmentally friendly principles. By repurposing waste materials and creating sustainable job opportunities, they have significantly reduced their carbon footprint.
Werner, Mud Studio's head designer, plays a pivotal role in developing their signature products. His design philosophy centers around the need to appreciate the beauty in the things that surround us. The Zulu hut designs for the bee kraal are a testament to this philosophy. Each ceramic bead was rolled by hand using recycled clay and meticulously wire-wrapped. Each leaf was shaped by hand and styled around handmade frames. The process was intensive, involving approximately 10 people over a period of 3 months.
The result is a collection of masterpieces that are not only functional but also deeply evocative, reflecting the beauty of nature and traditional craftsmanship.Recapping the experience of working on these magnificent huts, Werner said,
Hive Harmony
The bee kraal and the artisans behind it tell a story of dedication, creativity, and community. The collaboration between Brahman Hills and Mud Studio not only enhances our bee habitats but also supports artisans and promotes sustainability. We are proud to showcase these beautiful Zulu hut-shaped homes for our Brahman bees, and we hope that each visit to the kraal leaves you as inspired by their story as we are.
Our Brahman bees truly make our world go round. Their tireless work as pollinators is essential to maintaining our lush gardens and producing the delicious organic raw honey that graces our kitchen. We owe a great deal to these little creatures, their homes should be as extraordinary as they are.
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