If the past 12 months have taught us anything, it is this – we are connected. Our actions, no matter how small, carry consequences not only for ourselves but for others too. So, as we emerge from a year of reflection and plan on moving through the world more mindfully, there are small steps we can take which may make the world a little better.
One such small change is to become more aware of how and what we buy. Whilst overconsumption and waste have been highlighted during the pandemic is it possible to change enough to create a difference? Sarah Baldwin of Serendip certainly thinks so.
Having spent a part of her teenage years in Sri Lanka, Sarah setup Serendip as a way of supporting local artisans on the island. Serendip is a social enterprise that works with craftspeople and artisans, helping to bring their products to a worldwide audience. Serendip deals directly with the artists, removing middle-persons from the process and thereby allowing the artists to keep more of the money they make.
Since 2004, Serendip has built a network of artisans across fabric weaving, wood carving and folk. It’s regenerative work is recognised by the Sri Lankan government-sponsored Kandyan Arts Association. This has proven to be especially useful for Sri Lankan artisans when tourism on the island shut down entirely firstly due to the Easter Sunday bombings and then the pandemic.
Each artist whose work is featured on the Serendip website has been chosen by Sarah after multiple visits to their homes and workshops. Some of the items available to buy include Buddhist temple style paintings, hand-painted wooden plates, upcycled rice sack bags and coconut shell bowls. Every piece has its own story and the website introduces the artisans who made the products.
At a time when we have become ever-more conscious of how and where we spend money these make unique gifts for others or even a more mindful treat for ourselves. With prices starting from just £5.50 and each item supporting the person who created it this is the type of mindful and considered consumption that might just change the world.
Visit serendipcrafts.co.uk for more details.
