earthy rings

The concept of peace takes over this set of four Christmas tree wool felt ornaments designed by India’s Renu Rani. Each decoration is a cheerful mix of soft felt, playful bells that ring in the holiday spirit and colorful cotton embroidery showcasing the peace sign, the peace dove and the message, “Peace on Earth.” Make your tree sing with joy and kindness with these handcrafted ornaments that seamlessly hang from cotton cords and can be effortlessly stored in the accompanying pouch.

George Obeng designed this wonderful original sculpture with world peace in mind. Carved by hand from ebony wood, the sculpture depicts two women of different races holding up a clay pot that represents the fragility of life on Earth. "By this carving, I am appealing to the world that we are not the only creatures in the world," says the artist. "Plants and trees, insects, reptiles and fishes both in the sea and rivers, birds and all mammals are interested in enjoying life in the world. The human race is just a small fraction of all creatures, so why are we not interested in making peace our focus and object in the world, to enable all creatures to enjoy life to the fullest. Anytime there is earthly destruction, we only account for human losses, forgetting that other creatures including trees may also get damaged. This carving is sounding a wake-up call to the world leaders and united nations to wake up for the human race now. Humans are full of selfishness, cruelty and greed; these can cause the world to break into pieces. All the world leaders have a responsibility in the matter. The world is as fragile as a clay pot so therefore whatever we do let's do it in peace."

For Guatemalan artist Carolina Cabrera, to adore your inner nature is to claim a triumph. Transporting you to a fantasy world where spring has conquered Earth, Carolina creates this expressionist composition, merging luminous oil hues and gold foil for a breathtaking illusion. Myriad sunflowers surround a little child's smile, sending a message of happiness and self-love. Petite golden accents complete the painting, imitating the sun's divine shine.

The artwork arrives signed and stretched.

For this design, I chose a symbol of peace in practically all cultures and countries — a dove with an olive branch." says Alejandra Paiz of this delicate and unique beaded suncatcher. "It represents hope and the desire for a new and peaceful beginning on Earth. It's associated with purity and spirituality.

"I say a prayer for peace," the Guatemalan artisan continues. "And I ask that we pray it together. 'No more wars. We want peace. May this peace dove reach all the homes of the world.'

"The principles of peace are love, justice and truth. Nothing is more valuable than peace, and it's the basic starting point for humanity to progress.

"I share sensations of peace with the beautiful crystals that reflect the sun's light to illuminate the heart and soul. We seek that which gives meaning to our lives. Peace. Let's be a source of light instead of darkness."

Alejandra crafts the suncatcher by hand with crystal, glass and pewter beads, stainless steel ring and wire, a nickel chain and a zinc dove pendant.

"I convey peace with beautiful crystals that reflect the sunlight and illuminate our hearts and souls. Let's look for peace, which is what gives meaning to our lives. Let's be light, not darkness," says Alejandra Paiz, who crafts this one-of-a-kind beaded suncatcher depicting the universal symbol of peace — a dove holding an olive branch.

"This suncatcher represents hope and the desire for a new and peaceful beginning on Earth, made of components associated with purity and spirituality.

"I say a prayer for peace," the Guatemalan artisan continues. "And I ask that we pray it together. 'No more wars. We want peace. May this peace dove reach all the homes of the world.'

"The principles of peace are love, justice and truth. Nothing is more valuable than peace, and it's the basic starting point for humanity to progress. Here I share sensations of peace with the beautiful crystals that reflect the sun's light to illuminate the heart and soul."

The artisan handcrafts this stunning suncatcher from crystal, glass and pewter beads, stainless steel ring and wire, nickel chains and a zinc dove pendant.