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A social enterprise for local wire crafters
The Little Shoppe and Studio
Artwork from The Little Shoppe and Studio
Did you know?
The Little Shoppe and Studio crafters are working on a life-size rhinoceros wire sculpture in aid of The Rhino Project – an anti-poaching initiative.
The Little Shoppe and Studio in Hermanus was started in 2008 by Alda du Plooy, who rented a 3m2 room at a bookshop. She wanted to provide a trade space for local crafters. Today, this Hermanus social enterprise supports 38 Overberg wire art crafters.
Alda’s vision quickly changed when 2 crafters, Bongani Chenera and Farayi Mukonde, approached her. They showed Alda their wire art, and the 3 of them became partners in what is now the Little Shoppe and Studio.
The initiative has thrived and is a proudly expanding enterprise focused on creating a sustainable income through creative design for artists in the Overberg area. The cooperative studio space is full of life and boasts a showroom where you can interact with crafters.
You can simply walk in and browse, but much of the income is generated from outside orders. Restaurants request customised spice racks, for example, which are designed according to the restaurant’s brand and then sold wholesale. Similarly, jewellers often ask for custom designs.
Products are made from locally sourced wire. The public and wholesale suppliers are the donors. Recycled electric wire is also used, which adds colour to the pieces.
The initiative is enjoying interest from the international crafting community. Alda is in talks with distributors from Switzerland, Belgium and Germany, who are keen on getting products for the European markets.
The new industrial area location at Hermanus Village Square means the main studio has more space for wire art production. It can also accommodate the associated pottery and textile initiatives that are now gaining ground. The space at the Village Square is generously made available by a sponsor. Here you can meet the crafters, view storyboards of the products’ journeys, and attend occasional workshops.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
The Little Shoppe and Studio
Tel: +27 (0)73 231 7445
Email: thelittleshoppe@whalemail.co.za
How to get here
The Little Shoppe and Studio is on the top floor of the Village Square in Hermanus, behind the Ocean Basket.
What will it cost
Product prices range from approx R20 for small key rings, up to approx R400 for bigger, more elaborate pieces. Some of the large sculptures sell for up to approx R7 000.
What's happening
Wire art classes are offered to the public by appointment. Phone or email to enquire.
Best buys
The wonderful 3-dimensional key rings are hot sellers and quite different to anything else you've seen.