Brazil fascinates many people because of its miscegenation of indigenous, European, Asian and African peoples, and their various facets are reflected in the national culture. Handicrafts are one of those facets, and they will be on display at the New York International Gift Fair 2013 (NYIGF), one of the world's most important gift and decoration shows, beginning this weekend.
In addition to spreading the values and the beliefs of the Brazilian people, the handicrafts are made by hand in a sustainable manner, a characteristic that has contributed to its international appeal. œEveryone outside of the country dreams of having a Brazilian experience, and these products tell our story, says Tania Machado, president of ABEXA the Brazilian Association for the Exportation of Handicrafts.
The sector generates income for thousands of families in Brazil, approximately R$30 billion per year in revenue, representing 2.8% of the nation's gross domestic product. 87% of the sector's artists are women, who learned their crafts at home from their mothers or grandmothers.
This year's collection for the NYIGF includes works made from various raw materials, including, among others, soapstone, wood, fibers, ceramics, paper, porcelain, and glass. Among the highlights, the work of Evandro Baccara, which expresses indigenous lifestyle and customs in wood and gourds.
The collection also features ecologically friendly jewelry from various artisans, including pieces by Fabiana Bezerra made of golden grass, which is only found in one place in the world “ in the Jalapao region of the state of Tocantins. To prevent golden grass from becoming extinct, harvesting takes place only between September and November.
The artisan Eduardo Eleuterio produces work made of discarded wood, creating boxes with secret doors that respect the nature of each trunk. From the city of Ouro Preto, Alessandro Pereira works in soapstone and creates standout pieces that are both useful and decorative.
Jute fiber naturally dyed with roots and leaves are transformed into rugs by Luiz Sacramento, whose family has been performing their magic for more than 30 years. The artisan Maria Rita has produced a collection of handbags and accessories using the same materials.
Another important initiative to protect the environment is the work of Recreated Paper, which uses recycled paper with natural fibers in its line of products aimed at protecting jungles and forests.
Porcelena Monte Siao is self-sufficient in producing wood for firing their ovens and maintains a designated reforested area. What differentiates their work is their treating each piece as unique, attracting a clientele with excellent taste that knows how to appreciate the art of making porcelain.
In addition to the highlights already mentioned, the following artists will also be featured in this year's collection: Andreia Miranda and Eunice Dutra (wooden mosaics), Evandro Reis (cushions in crochet and fabric), Incomun (jewelry made from resins), Jane Silva (utilities), Junior Mapa and Pedra Sao Joao (soapstone) Maria Aline (resin and porcelain utilities) and Vera Naves (felt accessories).
Whereto find them: NYIGF no Crystal Palace Quad 3and Booth 2712
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center em Mahattan, NY.
Showroom 7W 34th St, Suite 739 New York, NY 10001
Press please contact Nilza Barros “ N&P Media Consulting, LLC
Email: nilzabarros@npmediaconsulting.com
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