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The women’s association in Santa Ana “Sinchi Warmi” meaning “strong woman” has been wanting to sell set up a communal system to make and sell traditional jewelry and ceramics for a long time now. In January of 2008, Tera and Kendra will visit Santa Ana and work with the women to make this dream a reality. The model works something like this:
Twice a year, Sacha Yaku will purchase ceramics and jewelry from the women individually. Sinchi Warmi can choose to ask its members to contribute a portion of these to bulk purchase of materials, tools, etc.
Women will be paid a fair price for their work, at least double the price they obtain in Puyo, which is so low that few women consider it worth the time and investment.
The jewelry and ceramics will be brought back to the United States and the unique pieces placed in Art Galleries, where people will be able to buy one-of-a-kind pieces of art that will really make a difference in the artisan’s life. Other pieces of jewelry will likely be made available for purchase over the internet in the future.
The proceeds after travel and operating costs will be invested in the water system – to pay for electricity, chlorine, the salary of the community operator, and any repairs necessary.
More information about the artisans and their lives can be found on The Artisans page
