practical decor

Add a touch of serene artistry to your interiors through this handcrafted artwork with practical use. Indian artisans of Sandeep Malhotra's team use cotton yarns in beige hues to handweave this macrame hanging planter, displaying a gorgeous and intricate structure of geometric details and mango wood beads. Accented with a sturdy pinewood rod, the piece also features a compartment to place your favorite objects or a flower pot—all embellished with a red bottom tassel.

Holding its front paws above its head, a cat reaches toward the sky while sitting in the asana or lotus position. Inhaling and exhaling deeply, the cat practices Hindu yoga in a sculpture by Bali's Nengah Sudarsana. He masterfully carves the suar wood sculpture by hand.

A traditional pattern of spirals, round shapes and geometric formations embellish this sturdy decorative box crafted in the beautiful Balinese Islands. Artisan Citra puts into practice her hand-carving techniques and creates this superb accessory, which includes a lid for a classic style. On top of that, this albesia wood home accent comes in a palette of bright natural colors for a tropical style.

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.

Inscribed with one of the most significant mantras in Buddhism, Om mani padme hum, this handcrafted chime is created by Tibetan refugees residing in northern India. Buddhists believe that saying this mantra, or even viewing it in its written form, invokes the blessings of the Buddha of Compassion. Cast from a combination of metals, the hand-tuned chime produces a clear tone when struck. Features brass stand with cloud motif and wooden base and striker.