be different art

Yellow birds emerge from a red and purple forest in this beautiful design. From talented members of Women United for Artisan Development, the cushion cover is woven by hand on a backstrap loom. Cording defines the borders, and the back is solid red.

Should one of the threads snag, the artisans suggest you pull it back into place from the back of the fabric with a fine crochet hook.

A lovely angel with hands folded in prayer and roses in her flowing auburn hair graces this handcrafted decorative ceramic plate. Designed by Mexican artisan Maria Isabel Cruz, the plate is made using the centuries-old dry rope technique, in which a wax mixture is applied to the outlines of the image or motif prior to glazing. The wax mixture creates a barrier that keeps the different fill colors in the design separate during firing, before burning off to reveal the blackened ceramic beneath. The plate can be hung on a wall for display via the nylon cord on the back.

Like a fragrant spring breeze, this amethyst and peridot beaded necklace refreshes the senses. The natural gemstone chips are strung onto 5 strands of different lengths by Thai artisan Sukanya Thongperm, creating a stunning piece of wearable art.

.925 Sterling silver

Bali artisan Made Sri takes a simple design and elevates it to art with brilliant execution. This lovely cuff bracelet is formed of a slender band of sterling silver with a hammered finish. Centering the cuff are two one-carat amethyst stones with a classic rectangular cut. The gemstones are oriented differently--one vertically and one horizontally--for a unique asymmetrical look.

By Om Prakash, this purple shoulder bag showcases India's traditional block print art. Elephants and paisleys in gold alternate with suns on the front and back. Fully lined, the purse features an inner pocket that zips closed.

Block-printing is done by hand, so please expect slight differences.