Testimonials
Visitors
“BRAVO. . . BRAVO. . . BRAVO. . . I am an art teacher in Huntsville, Alabama, and had the extreme privilege of attending this year’s market [2007]. I was so overwhelmed, delighted, and artistically inspired to levels that I find it difficult to find adequate words to define. . . Thank you so much for providing this opportunity and for supporting the world’s craftsmen in such a profound way. We ALL benefit from your tireless efforts.”
Mary Jones, Huntsville, AL
Artists, Co-operatives and Sponsoring Organizations
“Sales, both from direct sales in July and catalogue sales throughout the year, from the Folk Art Market mean greater income for the 300 women artists that are members of Jolom Mayaetik. This translates to greater stability in the family economy - for example, reduced levels of in-country migration for work to supplement income, and stable participation in schooling for the artists’ children.”
Celia Santiz Ruiz, Jolom Mayaetik, Mexico
“Extra income generated at the Market went to paying school fees for member children and dependants. We purchased ploughs and goals. There was sponsorship by a local bank for a basketry techniques workshop.”
Julia Mutale, Kasonde, Makombo and Kasholwasholwa Women’s Club, Zambia
“One of the reasons that it felt so good to be among artists from around the world was because this event was honoring them. As we know, life has been cruel to traditional, indigenous and peaceful cultures - those who now suffer at the bottom of the global socio-economic pyramid. Yet, what could be richer than seeing people through a clear cultural lens, and naturally giving everyone the highest level of respect? I can’t think of a better environment. Zimbabwe, Tibet, Haiti, Afghanistan are in such pain. On the other hand, South Africa is so inspiring, South America is protecting indigenous cultures more and more . . . “
Elise Hansen, Center for Artistic Training of Jacmel, Haiti
“The women in the co-op decided to use their profits to hire a teacher and start an elementary school in their small, remote community - the Lightening Stars School. The women are making their own choices with their business. (The women are also making their own choices on design and colors with the quilts they make.)
Patricia Stoddard, Lila Handicrafts, Ralli Quilts, Pakistan
“Yes, we have invested our profits in our community. We’ll have a gallery soon and also a museum in Luangprabang, and the skillfarm will be in it. We will train some more young girls to keep our tradition of weaving continuing on earth - we found it tends to be rare and endangered day by day.”
Taykeo Sayavongkhamdy, Lao Handicraft Association, Laos
“We are able to reach a wider audience of appreciators and supporters, sharing our story of how to make a positive change in a devastated environment. Our mission of education has been expanded through our participation at the Folk Art Market.”
Rachel Lehr, Rubia, Afghanistan
