Keeping in touch with our artisans and the unique challenges they face during this global health crisis is important to us. Our artisans in Nicaragua are a close group of family and friends. Here is a small glimpse into the challenges, as well as positive changes and growth, that have come from this difficult time for our partner artisan cooperative in León, Nicaragua:
Liliam and Huber, how has your creative process changed due to the pandemic?
Our creative process has not changed but our work has slowed and, at times, paused all together. When the pandemic first began, the sadness and fear we saw around us limited our ability to create new designs. But, with time, we have persevered, and now even beginning to create new designs and color combinations for our blankets. Our greatest inspiration comes from the nature surrounding us - the mountains, flowers, birds, the sea and volcanoes - as well as from the joy and love that each artisan possesses. During this time, like always, our motivation comes from nature, our own creativity and of course our on-going economic needs.
What are the greatest challenges you and your community have faced in response to COVID-19?
The most grave challenge has been the economic one. Our sales have plummeted. We must continue to work even harder to recover, even though we don’t know what life will be like when this is over. Hopefully things will be even better.
Have you been able to find any positives in this situation? How so?
We have been scared to leave our homes to work, but the need and our courage helped us to overcome the fear. Despite the fact that we can’t hug and kiss those who visit us, the beautiful thing is that we have created a design called “besos y abrazos” (hugs and kisses). In this way, we are always giving hugs and kisses through our creations.
Out of the darkest moments there is always positive. This time has given us the opportunity to understand who all really are, as human beings. As a collective of artisans we are more united than ever. That’s why we will continue to fight and move forward, whatever it costs.
Artisans in Nicaragua work in their home workshop in the town of León
Founder Amanda designs with artisans in Nicaragua
Artisan Huber prepares cotton for the foot loom in Nicaragua
Artisan Daniela in Nicaragua hand finishing a blanket