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Making Pull Tab Accessories
During a recent buying trip to Guatemala I experienced the emotional highs of hope and depths of distress while witnessing incredible collaborations, but also the stark realities of hardship many artisans endure. My work started with a cooperative located in a marginalized area of Guatemala City. Their resilience is embodied in our latest collection of up-cycled jewelry which includes our “Can Do” pieces. On the surface they are fun and funky accessories, however their deeper meaning is the determination that these women demonstrate in the face of adversity.
I feel a strong connectedness with Guatemala. I have been traveling there for nine years now, learning about the culture as well as becoming aware of the difficulties encountered by those living within its marginalized areas. Hope still flourishes in small spaces of crafts production and development; it is this hope that is the essence and inspiration for Revive.
Day Care & Pre-School
Cooperativa La Esperanza is a self-sustainable women´s cooperative dedicated to training women in order to better their lives and the lives of their families. Today the co-op serves over sixty members including twenty general staff and fifty women working as seamstresses and craft producers. This provides the artisans much needed employment and skills training. This wonderful co-op also provides additional programs for the community, including a day care, school, pharmacy, and bakery. Since 1988, its members have worked hard to maintain their cooperative in an increasingly difficult economic and social climate.
This strong and determined group of women is always striving to expand their crafts production. This is partly due to continued growth of the cooperative but also out of necessity to keep up with the difficult times and market fluctuations. Some of their most recent items are made from recycled aluminum cans. Our “Can Do” jewelry feature pull tabs woven together with leather and earrings of colorful layered recycled aluminum. These are truly Can Do accessories–the pieces embody the resilience of these women.
Working with this group always leaves me with an elevated spirit yet a strong desire to do so much more. We are proud to have developed a long-term relationship with them and are excited to offer this up-cycled jewelry and pass on the strength it symbolizes. Seeing first hand the tumultuous nature of the day-to-day life of these women reminds me that buying fair trade directly can significantly influence the lives of others. Stay posted for other inspiring stories from Guatemala; I visited and worked with a number of groups in the country. In the meantime, enjoy these up-cycle chic accessories with a mission to up-lift!
With Love,
Lisa
"Can Do" Accessories Collection
Rooftop View
Quality Control Station
It was so nice to meet you last night, Lisa. I enjoyed seeing your store in person and talking to you! Best of everything!!!