SEPTEMBER 2024
Empowering Indigenous Artisans
In many remote indigenous communities, limited access to education, resources and markets presents significant challenges to economic opportunity, often exacerbating cycles of poverty and marginalisation. Ayeivi, or "Beautiful Kawe” is a program aimed at empowering local artisans by providing a point of sale for locally made handicrafts,facilitating the purchase of tools and findings with profits from sales, and supporting makers with branding and marketing material and strategy.
The Art of Ayeivi
The Intersection of Tradition and Contemporary Style
Each piece of jewellery made by the women of Ayeivi is inspired by the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Kawe islands. The jewellery reflects a deep connection to nature using materials sourced directly from the surrounding environment.
Natural elements such as seeds, stems, bone and shell are selected to honour the island’s resources, while minimizing environmental impact. The result is a blend of tradition and nature where every piece tells a story of Kawe’s heritage.
While rooted in tradition, the women of Ayeivi continuously evolve their craft, blending time-honoured designs with modern fashion trends to create jewelry and accessories that speak to both the past and the present.
When you purchase a handcrafted product from Ayeivi, you are directly supporting the community and empowering the women behind these creations.
Noken
Weaving tradition with functionality
Noken, the traditional handwoven bags of Papua, are a symbol of Papuan culture, passed down through generations and recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Made from natural fibers, these bags represent a deep connection to the environment, sustainability and indigenous craftsmanship.
Traditionally, Noken were used to carry everything from firewood to harvested crops, andeven infants. Today, the eco-friendly bags serve modern functions – carried like totes forgroceries or slung over shoulders to hold phones and wallets.
The women of Ayeivi have embraced the tradition of making Noken with a twist - they incorporate Biji jali-jali. This unique adaptation combines the cultural essence of Nokenwith the craftsmanship of beadwork allowing the women not only to preserve the heritage of Noken-making but also introduce an innovative design that reflects both their connection to the environment and their evolving artistry.
Biji Jali-Jali
The Heart of Ayeivi's Creations
At the core of Ayeivi’s handicrafts is Biji Jali-Jali, a natural seed harvested from the Coix lacryma-jobi plant, found in the lush environments of Papua. These seeds are renowned for their smooth texture and natural beauty, which make them ideal for crafting. Biji Jali-Jali is not only beautiful but also highly sustainable. Harvested from the wild, these seeds are naturally renewable and biodegradable, causing no harm to the environment. By utilizing locally sourced materials like Biji Jali-Jali, Ayeivi is able to maintain a low environmental footprint while supporting local ecosystems and preserving traditional knowledge of natural resources.
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