Weaving Art Objects

Weaving Art Objects (WAO) is a manufacturing workshop and concept store that is revitalising traditional artisan techniques through the mediums of contemporary art and design. Founded by Aïssa Dione, a passionate award-winning textile designer, WAO focuses on developing and investing in "Made in Senegal" production that simultaneously meets the needs of the national market and a demanding international clientele. The WAO workshop produces entirely handmade cabinetry, small accessories and quality furniture collections. These are showcased in The WAO Concept Store, which opened its doors at the beginning of 2020.

Aïssa Dione is the founder of Aïssa Dione Tissus and Weaving Art Objects. A defender of Senegal's textile industry, Aïssa has been instrumental in modernising the country's weaving traditions by transforming local techniques and materials into commercially viable textiles. Immersing herself in the world of woven textiles, the idea of turning local know-how into manufacturing led Aïssa to set up Aïssa Dione Tissus in 1992. Through the business she introduced materials such as raffia, organic cotton, Egyptian cotton threads and exceptional silk to develop sophisticated textile collections adapted to suit the furnishing and high decoration markets. Working with local artisans, Aïssa began producing handcrafted furniture upholstered with her woven textiles, and opened Weaving Art Objects in 2020.

The Artisan: a crafted tea room Exhibition