By Emma Melvin
Kandi is a form of beaded art originating from 90s rave culture, representing PLUR (Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect). These beaded pieces are usually in the form of bracelets, but can be in the form of shapes and animals, necklaces, hanging wall decorations, etc.
Some people may think this idea was inspired by friendship bracelets traded at pop concerts. However, the techniques and supplies are different. Kandi was a trend about 30 years before friendship bracelets at pop concerts.
The supplies used for kandi are perler fuse beads (to make flat designs to attach to pre-made pieces), pony beads (for the base), tapestry needles (to easily weave through the beads), and sometimes small trinkets to attach to the work. Typically with kandi, it focuses more on the visual art aspect rather than words on the piece.
With concert friendship bracelets, the concept focuses more on words on the piece, usually referencing a song by an artist. The bracelets are mostly simpler, and do not vary much in different shapes.
A huge aspect of Kandi is the trading. You start off with a bracelet on the opposite wrist of both people facing towards each other. Both people will form a peace sign while touching the two fingertips together, this is peace. Next is two halves of a heart, this is love. Then you touch your one hand together, this is unity. Finally you will interlock fingers, hold them together and switch the bracelet to the other person’s wrist.
The Kandi community is still a very prominent culture in art. Jupiter Pelkey from Benicia High, as well as a member of the kandi community, says “I enjoy making and trading kandi because it brings people together. I absolutely love the community it has created, it’s given so many people something to love and care about.”
Marrz Clute, another student from Benicia High says, “I enjoy the different types of beads and how well people in the community treat each other.”
Overall, kandi is a very versatile art form; and can truly express one’s creativity in the form of what they create. The members of the community feel welcome, and enjoy sharing their art with one another.
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