gifts we love

Heir of an ancestral pottery lineage, Feriberto Aylas expresses his love for the Andean culture with precious artworks depicting the life and philosophy of the region. This time, the Peruvian artisan draws inspiration from the popular Torito de Pucará and gives that traditional amulet a cute turn by creating a ceramic sculpture of a little kitten. After painting the feline in a black base hue, the artisan adds classic floral and leafy motifs in a palette of green, turquoise and golden hues, evoking the beauty of the region.

Wrap yourself in the unparalleled charm of this midnight blue cable knit cardigan, a chic accessory that effortlessly blends comfort with artistry. Knitted from soft alpaca yarns, this cozy layer by Peruvian artisan Briseida Huete is adorned with hand-embroidered floral and leaf motifs in vibrant cotton fibers. Finished with fabric-covered buttons and graceful bell sleeves, it's a versatile favorite that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.

Drawing inspiration from the majestic peacock and richAndean textile heritage, Peru’s Maria Cutipa createsthis remarkable intarsia knit cardigan in a deep blueshade. The shawl collar cardigan is expertly crafted from100% alpaca yarn and is adorned with embroideredfloral, leaf and geometric patterns, with an impressivepeacock motif at the back that steals the show. Addingto its charm are the handpainted ceramic buttons whichcloses the front, elevating the garment to a work of art.Front patch pockets.

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 made this sculpture as a tribute to life," confides John Barrow. "The different colors represent the joy of life, of feeling, and of having hope for the future. Its optimism is contagious." Barrow crafts the sculpture with hand-carved segments of cedar, mahogany and ishpingo woods. He stains the woods with colorful natural dyes.

If you love original fashion accessories that break the mold, then you will adore this jewelry set that comes with an aqua pendant necklace and pendant wristband bracelet crafted from a creative mix of materials. Both are adjustable and feature pendants made from resin with a dolphin print as well as petite synthetic flowers and leaves inside. While the necklace features a waxed nylon cord with a pinewood bead, the bracelet is braided with the macrame technique by Costa Rica's Lorena and Marcela.

A volcano seems to embrace Saint Francis Church in Antigua Guatemala as well as several colorful houses and a charming cobblestone street filled with trees and flowers in Hugo Pichiya’s lovely composition crafted with oil paints on canvas in an Impressionistic style. The scene invites the beholder to step into this captivating atmosphere and experience the unique allure of Antigua Guatemala.

Titled Calle de San Francisco in Spanish.

Colorful stripes as well as floral, leaf and geometric patterns in sunrise, jade and graphite hues over an ivory backdrop grace this stylish empire waist midi dress by India's Anchal Ahuja. Crafted from a blend of cotton and shimmering Lurex, this fashionable dress boasts pintuck accents, long sleeves, a round neckline, metallic buttons and a lovely drawstring closure with delicate tassels.

The Balinese village of Kintamani is renowned for its exuberant nature and for being home to the famous Mount Batur volcano. This village serves as Galuh Kenanga's inspiration for a gorgeous and versatile kimono jacket crafted from 100% rayon made from bamboo and featuring leaf motifs hand-stamped with classic batik techniques. The open-front, one-size jacket features three-quarter sleeves and a loose fit as well as a lovely palette of navy blue, chestnut and plum.