guatemalan artisans

"A dove with an olive branch is a symbol of peace recognized virtually in all cultures and countries. It represents hope and our aspirations of achieving a new, peaceful beginning. It is also associated with purity and spirituality," says Alejandra Paiz of this breathtaking suncatcher.

"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.

Crocheted by hand, four white pine trees with accents of yellow, red, green, and blue make a delightful addition to the tree this holiday season. Guatemalan artisan Marleny Chajon designs these ornaments, which arrive with a handy cotton storage bag.

With calm ocean blue petals and a bright yellow center, spring flowers dance among stylized turquoise blue leaves under a starry sky in this hand crafted ceramic oil dispenser. Guatemalan artisan Lilyan Benecke is inspired by the flora of her country, which she calls "the country of eternal spring."This piece is signed "Topis Antigua," the name of this Guatemalan ceramics workshop.

With calm ocean-blue petals and a bright yellow center, spring flowers dance among stylized turquoise blue leaves under a starry sky in this hand crafted ceramic soup bowl with lid. Guatemalan artisan Lilyan Benecke is inspired by the flora of her country, which she calls "the country of eternal spring."This piece is signed "Topis Antigua," the name of this Guatemalan ceramics workshop.

Crocheted by hand, four white pine trees with accents of dark blue and soft pink make a delightful addition to the tree this holiday season. Guatemalan artisan Marleny Chajon designs these ornaments, which arrive with a handy cotton storage bag.

With calm ocean-blue petals and a bright yellow center, spring flowers dance among stylized turquoise blue leaves under a starry sky in this handcrafted pair of plates. Guatemalan artisan Lilyan Benecke is inspired by the flora of her country, which she calls "the country of eternal spring."This piece is signed "Topis Antigua," the name of this Guatemalan ceramics workshop.

The ethereal beauty of the Christmas season exudes a unique magic that invites every soul to unite into one sentiment of love and peace. Artisan Teo Hernandez of Guatemala also feels that enchanting sensation, which motivates him to create this minimalist Christmas tree made from teak wood pieces in a divine white hue. With a star and a sturdy base completing the piece, each element dances around a central steel rod, allowing a charming illusion.

"Palm trees represent hedonism, relaxation and exoticism," says Guatemalan artist Spencer Samayoa while putting his skills and advanced woodcut printing techniques into practice. As an ancient art dating back to the 7th century, the xylograph print allows Spencer to create this mysterious scene of two palm trees peacefully moving to the rhythm of the wind.

The artwork, titled Viento Negro in Spanish, comes stretched.