After the fall of apartheid in South Africa, the Reverend Desmond Tutu christened the country The Rainbow Nation because of the different races, tribes, religions, languages and cultures coexisting together and aiming to live in harmony.
What could represent these aims better than these colourful Telephone Wire Bowls made in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa.
Unlike commercially made mass produced products, each bowl is an absolute work of art and each piece is unique.
Based on the traditional skills of weaving baskets from grasses each individual artist designs the patterns and chooses the colours to create these stunning bowls.
In an area of high unemployment, more than 650 people receive an income from the project. This means that the people can remain in their homelands and are not forced to move to the cities to provide for their families.
As a result, the whole community benefits and they have been able to set up a child care facility, implement a food scheme and to provide funds for education.
Fantastic as an eye catching and decorative feature in home decor or as a functional item they make an excellent gift for someone special.
Who knows? You may even be tempted to treat yourself. With this purchase you are helping twice - supporting the artisans who made it and the patients at Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.
Written by Marg, Volunteer at the Hamlin Shop