Although I am not an expert on fair trade, I do have a strong passion for art and specifically, art from around the world. Wherever I go, I always try to take with me a small piece of that place, wherever it may be. I try to capture the beauty of the place, the people, their surroundings. This small piece that I take with me might just be a photograph I snap with my film camera, a unique flyer from an event, or a piece of pottery handcrafted by a local artisan. I strongly believe that art takes all forms, from writing a haiku to using your hands to build a bowl to even making a display for a shop’s window. I also believe in the beauty that art can create to connect others around the world.
Because of who I am, I am presented with so much wealth, so much privilege. Whenever I am satisfied with a photograph that I take, I simply load it onto the internet & others appreciate it, take notice. But- for so many artisans around the world, their work, their creations go unnoticed. These marginalized artisans of our global community become invisible due to situations, circumstances, & location. This truly digs deep down at my heart.
So, I want to share with you a beautiful nonprofit store- {Mustard Seed Fair Trade} that tries to impact the world & create change for these talented craftsmen. The photos above are from inside the store & feature some of the creations by global artists.
There are so many stores like Mustard Seed Fair Trade that truly want to make a change. I urge you to seek out these places in your own community & support them. You will not only be supporting your own community but the global community as well. It is so exciting to know that you are supporting a family in a different country & sharing their work with others.
I urge you to check out the {Mustard Seed Fair Trade} website & educate yourself on what “fair trade” truly means. It is inspiring, I promise!
love,
Natalie