The artisans responsible for this jewelry, like the Hindu Goddess Kali, embrace the intersection of destruction and creation, skillfully shaping war remnants into wearable art.
The workshop is sponsored by Cambodia Craftworks, an NGO located in an underprivileged rural community thirty minutes from Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital. Revenue supports additional training for artisans who wish make jewelry from one of the most plentiful scrap resources available in the area, given the vast amount of bombshells and bullets left over from the tragic Khmer Rouge period.
Funds also support college degrees for artisans’ family members. This is of particular relevance as those who had higher education were singled out to be put to death during the conflict. Providing equal access to education is a key to expanding opportunity for all.
With the support of NGO Craftworks and your purchase, the artisans now generate much needed income that provides their families and their communities the chance at a better future.More information on Cambodia's rich culture, history, and the organization is available here.
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