Since Covid there has been a global shift to prioritising being ‘present’ in our lives, honing the art of noticing. We’ve been inspired more than ever to create our own castle, a haven in our homes. Thinking of my own special place in my home I wanted to encourage friends, family and readers to share their special/safe space. Perhaps it might inspire you to create your own spot, if you don’t already have one.
I’ve named this feature, Kumbla. The word ‘kumbla’ Kumbla comes from the work of Erna Brodber, Jamaican writer (sociologist and social activist), entitled Jane and Louisa Will Soon Come Home:
“The image of the kumbla derives in this novel from a popular Anancy story in which Anancy dupes Dryhead into believing that he is surrendering all of his sons to him by telling his son Tucuma … Anancy’s whole career has been one of spinning “fine white cocoons” (124), creating kumblas “designed to protect for generations”.
I’ve drawn upon the image of a kumbla as safe space/place. Yet, how do you find peace when your home is also your place of work? Meet Trinidad born, London based accessories Designer and Founder of TM Boutique Thalia Mae
My kitchen/dining room is my favourite spot. It’s bright and airy. I decorated it in reminiscence of my Caribbean heritage. It has bright bold colours and patterns. The room also doubles as my creative space to design and make jewellery.
My handmade jewellery is inspired by the Caribbean, so it’s great to be surrounded by tokens of the region to unleash my creativity. During the colder months, the space has even more importance. The décor helps to keep me cheerful and connected to ‘HOME’.
Are you a child or the Caribbean diaspora OR simply luv all things Caribbean, visit TM Boutique on Instagram. On this account Thalia Mae displays her latest designs, shares her inspiration and looks.
If you missed the last kumbla feature, visit the Kumbla page to see them all.
Would like to be featured? DM me on Instagram or email: maria@xpatathome.co.uk . Looking forward to hearing from you.
