UNA/SA UNCenter UNICEF Tucson, Arizona

Store Cultural Events

Moussa Albaka, Tuareg Silversmith

Saturday, October 11th - 10am to 4pm

Work by Moussa Albaka Silver Tuareg Pendant with agate Silver Taureg Pendant with blue agate

Moussa Albaka, Tuareg Silversmith and winner of the UNESCO Prize in 1991 will be instore demonstrating the art of Tuareg jewelry making. Additionally we will have Tuareg jewelry, textiles and leatherwork for sale.

The Tuareg, many living in Niger, are descendants of Saharan Berbers. Moussa Albaka is from Agadez which is just south of the great Saharan desert. Niger is landlocked and the drought cycles are evident. Moussa was born in a nomad tent and as a young man traveled with camel caravans. The Tuareg are semi-nomadic but their artwork remains intact and is highly distinctive. This folk art is mostly passed down through the male side of the family to families of the “enad” or blacksmith caste. Moussa was taught by his father and uncles and in turn he teaches his sons and nephews who work for him. Moussa Albaka is an acclaimed artist and is highly regarded by his peers. His works are timeless - distinctively modern while faithful to cultural traditions. His goal is to increase knowledge and recognition of Tuareg art and culture.

Day of the Dead Altar - Joan Binder

stay tuned for more details

MOJOS by Virginia Mann, Jewelry Artist

Saturday, November 1st - 10am to 4pm

Virginia has been in love with fibers since the 60’s. Tapestry weaving on large looms was her medium of choice until moving onto a sailboat with her husband, Larry, in 1999. With space restricted, her creativity evolved as they explored the Caribbean together for eight years. Stringing, knotting, and weaving replaced the bulky looms and island seeds, pearls, and beads became her resources. The jewelry she named “Mojos” has her staying true to the love of fiber, ethnic findings, and southwest influences, while using the local resources.

The juxtaposition of colors, shapes and textures is what distinguishes Virginia’s unique style; seeds combined with silver, pearls with string, and Venezuelan threads with Arizona turquoise. You’ll love the range of her beautiful pieces that give an understated flair to any ensemble.

These special educational events are part of our commitment to the promotion of dialogue and understanding between cultures.


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Store Cultural Events Moussa Albaka, Tuareg Silversmith Saturday, October 11th - 10am to 4pm Moussa Albaka, Tuareg Silversmith and winner of the UNESCO Prize in 1991 will be instore demonstrating the art of Tuareg jewelry making. Additionally we will have Tuareg jewelry, textiles and leatherwork for sale. The Tuareg, many living in Niger, are descendants of Saharan Berbers. Moussa Albaka is from Agadez which is just south of the great Saharan desert. Niger is landlocked and the drought cycles are evident. Moussa was born in a nomad tent and as a young man traveled with camel caravans. The Tuareg are semi-nomadic but their artwork remains intact and is highly distinctive. This folk art is mostly passed down through the male side of the family to families of the “enad” or blacksmith caste. Moussa was taught by his father and uncles and in turn he teaches his sons and nephews who work for him. Moussa Albaka is an acclaimed artist and is highly regarded by his peers. His works are timeless - distinctively modern while faithful to cultural traditions. His goal is to increase knowledge and recognition of Tuareg art and culture. Day of the Dead Altar - Joan Binder stay tuned for more details MOJOS by Virginia Mann, Jewelry Artist Saturday, November 1st - 10am to 4pm Virginia has been in love with fibers since the 60’s. Tapestry weaving on large looms was her medium of choice until moving onto a sailboat with her husband, Larry, in 1999. With space restricted, her creativity evolved as they explored the Caribbean together for eight years. Stringing, knotting, and weaving replaced the bulky looms and island seeds, pearls, and beads became her resources. The jewelry she named “Mojos” has her staying true to the love of fiber, ethnic findings, and southwest influences, while using the local resources. The juxtaposition of colors, shapes and textures is what distinguishes Virginia’s unique style; seeds combined with silver, pearls with string, and Venezuelan threads with Arizona turquoise. You’ll love the range of her beautiful pieces that give an understated flair to any ensemble. These special educational events are part of our commitment to the promotion of dialogue and understanding between cultures.