may rings

As if viewed from above, this tree is home to myriad birds of colorful plumage. "I created this design as a way of raising ecological consciousness and a call to renew our efforts to protect our Amazon region, so these cheerful birds may continue to live in their natural habitat. Likewise, so we may continue to admire the variety of creatures that live in Peru," exclaims Luis Leon. He weaves the wool tapestry on a pedal loom with the cushioned textures that are unique to San Pedro de las Cajas weaving legacy.

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."

Angel del Palacio illustrates this moody scene of a Maya woman deep in prayer and surrounded by the smoke of copal incense as she makes an offering. As is customary in Chiapas, she wears her long hair in braids, and her traditional huipil blouse, skirt and belt are woven by hand. The Mexican artist uses the gouache technique for this evocative portrait. The painting is mounted on a pinewood stretcher and covered with a protective pane of glass.

Titled "La Ofrenda" in Spanish.