|
Home-ware has always been a passion of mine. I love entertaining, setting my tables, decorating my home and seeing how many different ways I can do it. The more I can find to decorate with, the happier I am and the fuller my linen cupboard gets. My husband, who works in rural areas, often arrives home with hand made items to add to my "collection."
I spent a long time researching the market and was so surprised to find how many beautiful products were being made right on my door step. Most of the projects I looked at were rural communities that had been adopted by folk who took a keen interest in humanity. Seeing the potential of the rurals, who were so desperate to help themselves, but needed a little guidance.
The Zulu Nation, who originate from Kwa-zulu Natal, are traditionally good at beading and weaving. These methods were used to communicate to loved ones and create storage facilities for food. As time has passed, the traditional methods are now being used in more creative, modern ways. For example, the WIRE BASKET RANGE - the method behind the design is BASKET WEAVING. The Zulu Love letter is still around today. The colours of the beads and the patterns used each have their own meaning. Beading is still very popular and an easy skill to learn.
While doing my research, it made me realise the seriousness of HIV Aids and how it affects the Rural every day life. Training the locals in any skill takes time, and some don't have much of that left. In a small group of skilled weavers for example, you will often find the person that made the basket, is no longer. Poverty in some of the areas is up to 80 - 90%.
The people we have chosen to support all get paid for the items they produce, so the more we support them, the better off they become. The idea: TO UPLIFT AND HELP THOSE WHO ARE DETERMINED TO HELP THEMSELVES IN BECOMING SELF SUFFICIENT - HELPING TO RESTORE THEIR SELF ESTEEM.
I have a page on this site, WORK IN MOTION. These are the folk we are supporting. Smiling, happy People!
I hope you enjoy the viewing and please don't hesitate to contact us. We would love to hear from you. - Kim Lunt.
|
