Exotic... and Ethical

One of my most cherished places to visit is Ten Thousand Villages. The company not only sells amazing handcrafted items from all over the world, but it stands behind fairtrade, treating artisans respectfully, and assisting those in need on a global level. Here is a sampling of what the many gifted artisans have to offer from all points of the globe...

Cylinder Candleholder
Artisan Group: Dominion Traders Country: Pakistan
Dominion Traders works with underprivileged artisans who make stone and shesham wood crafts in the city of Karachi.

Akin to woodgrain, the natural variation and colors of onyx create gorgeous patterns...

Peace Banner

Artisan Group: Yayasan Mitra Bali Country: Indonesia
Established in 1993 as a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization, Mitra Bali functions loosely as a cooperative of 80 artisan groups representing 900 member artisans who make ceramic, wood, silver and bamboo handicrafts.

So many words translate into one strong message... Peace. A universal wish.

Elephant Bookends

Artisan Group: Tara Projects Country: India
Tara Projects, which works in and around Delhi, is a fair trade program for community development and business

Of strong symbolism in India, elephants are seen as sacred creatures of much wisdom, strength, and remembrance...

Shalom! (: