Artisans deserve huge applause

Artisans are creatives who veer between the epicurean and ethereal worlds, immersing us in a whimsical moment in time with their works. There is a particular magic to beholding a hand-crafted artisanal product; its quality, originality and imagination can be spellbinding to the sophisticated shopper. Artisans are arbiters of taste, charged with curating our lives with the most exquisite experiences, whether these be intoxicating perfumes, riveting paintings, chic fashion, glittering jewelry, delectable cuisines or dreamy gardens.

Artisanal works are also a way of promoting and preserving culture in a most refined way. Museums around the world are a treasure trove of collections made by artisans throughout the centuries, giving us glimpses of bygone or immortalized civilizations. Everyday useful and beautiful items, such as china, embroidered tapestries, clothing, jewelry, clocks, paintings and statues, have preserved the heritage of those nations for eons.

Since such consumption is essential to our human existence, it is imperative that we support the artisan economy. This can be done early by introducing its history and value through educational curricula, thus piquing interest among curious children. Extracurricular activities can seek to introduce students to the beauty of artisanship, and build a repertoire of skills, values and refined taste needed to pursue such a career in the future. Vocational programs are also much needed in later stages so that students build their competencies. Additionally, a solid knowledge of enterprise management is imperative to equip artisanal companies to deal with the harsh realities of this type of business, from seasonal sales to unreliable distribution channels and ephemeral customers. Public policies should also support artisanal shops through subsidies, microcredits and transformation to online commerce. The media can also shed light on the design and production processes of artisanal products. Interestingly, many artisanal companies have also started inviting customers to their ateliers to showcase the expertise that goes into producing their works.

Many companies pride themselves on the artisanal techniques used in their products. For example, Hermes, the French high fashion and luxury goods manufacturer, includes the motto “contemporary artisans since

1837” on its website. The company employs 5,200 artisans in France who are responsible for imparting artisanal skills to younger generations, including those with disabilities. A look at any iconic Hermes scarf is likely to strike admiration by the shopper. The collection of scarves is intensely colorful, full of whimsical illustrations depicting equestrian themes, botanical utopia, and carousels. Dreamed up by artists, the concept is then shared with a team of artisans that overlooks the entire production process.

Artisanal products touch us subliminally on a daily basis. They are a source of inspiration, moodboosters and bundles of pleasures. As such, artisans deserve a glittering place in our economy in order to remain sustainable.

Sara Al-Mulla is an Emirati civil servant with an interest in human development policy and children’s literature. She can be contacted via www.amorelicious.com.