Power of Purchase

Aid to Artisans – an international, non-profit organization that helps artisans in developing countries learn business skills, and links them to new markets and buyers – is gaining style status not just for its compassionate and clever mission but also for the savvy designs its artisans produce. Their pieces have been showcased in various magazines, including Wish (we featured a Tatu table by Artecnica in our Summer ‘07 issue). While assisting artisans economically, the organization has also accomplished a long list of impressive improvements, such as removing the lead poison from glazes used in Mexico, to helping women suffering from HIV and AIDS in South Africa, to helping redesign traditional clay planters in El Salvador for better marketability. Each purchase funds these critical projects. Check out their website to donate, volunteer, sponsor an artisan’s training, or just to buy something from their easy online shop. Every little bit counts!
- Andrea Mills, Home Associate

Tandem Tagines from Morocco, about $27, aidtoartisans.org.