What is an artisan?

We often talk about what makes our furniture and design collection unique. The fact that all of the pieces we offer are one-of-a-kind creations that are handcrafted by artisans from all over the globe is just one reason. But what is an artisan?

An artisan is a skilled worker who makes things by hand. The specialty of an artisan is that the objects they create have both functional as well as aesthetic values. Their creations are caringly crafted using local materials and time-honored skills.

The knowledge and craftsmanship that our artisans use has been passed down from generation to generation, with new techniques being combined with traditional methods, giving an innovative touch to creations without losing their ethical heritage.

Our artisan communities are also often comprised of small, family owned workshops that pride themselves on keeping local traditions alive in their workmanship, utilizing manual craftsmanship without compromising quality. All of the items created by our artisans fit modern, natural lifestyles while still retaining the spirit of traditional craftsmanship.

One of our artisan groups can be found in Peru. To understand craftsmanship of these artisans, it all begins with another natural habitant: the alpacas. In the earliest Peruvian history, there are  examples of the bond between the Incas and alpaca. The Incas placed a higher value on alpaca fiber than gold or silver. The knowledge and craftsmanship of spinning and knitting has been passed down from generation to generation of artisans, resulting in the rich, diverse textile heritage of Peru. The alpacas live mostly without any boundaries in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes and are not harmed during the shearing process. The alpaca is the only animal that produces up to 22 natural colors and can be blended into an infinite array of natural shades from inky black to warm chestnuts and snowy white. It is easily dyed in any color and always retains its natural luster. Alpaca produces a completely natural fiber and there is no use of harsh chemicals in production.

It is believed that to be an artisan, the individual requires a lot of experience and creativity. In the ancient days, before the industrial revolution resulted in the mass production of goods, artisans held a high position in their communities. Even today, artisans’ creations have a high value on the market because they are handmade, and thus, carry a unique value. Our artisans use their skills, honed over generations, to carefully craft goods. This results in labor-rich, one-of-a-kind pieces that are as unique as the person that made them and goods that are all slightly different, reflecting the artisan unique skills.

 You can learn more about Galiatea and all of it's collections and the work of our artisans from Peru and all over the world directly from our Founder and Creative Director, Sophia Clark on a recent podcast episode. And, in this brief discussion, Sophia provides details about a special discount on purchases made available until July 15, 2020.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published