Our Story
Violet Moon is a micro business creating original and unique designs on homegrown calabashes (gourds). Based on a small farm near Johannesburg, it originated as Studio Hoogeland in the mid-1980s. Then slowly and organically, it evolved through the years.
The name Violet Moon was inspired by the sacred feminine energy of the hidden moon; when the yellow crescent is all that is seemingly visible at sunset. But, for those who pause to pay attention, a darker violet becomes visible.
We invite you to pause for a moment …
… to take in the original & unique creations of Violet Moon.
Calabash
We grow our own calabashes in rich, organically composted soil on Moon Rising Farm. Our two rescue donkeys Ampie and Liefie, and our small flocks of ducks and geese, provide us with ample manure that is added to our compost heap.
It takes roughly a year for the calabashes to be ready to be transformed into a variety of highly decorated (and often functional) works of art.
A wood burning tool is used to create the basic design, whereafter an undercoat is applied, followed by either acrylic paint, wood stain, gilders paste or oil pastels.
All items are then silicone-sealed to repel water and prolong the lifespan of the delicate natural calabash.
Sizes and shapes vary with each item; we will match an ordered piece as closely as possible if requested.
Prices are subject to change, depending on the size agreed upon.
