By Claudia Guzmán
This article was translated by Amairani Márquez and Manuel Eduardo Mendoza
Given the need to find creative solutions that respond to a better natural resources management and the improvement of the living conditions of the communities, the project “Alternatives for the Use of Natural Resources of the Region: Jewelry Workshop” was carried out.
This workshop had the objective of promoting the development and use of the region’s natural resources to transform them into jewelry, this is a productive alternative that will generate a better income for the communities in a sustainable way.
From March 15 to 24, 2018 in San Quintín, 10 members of the communities La Chorera, Ejido Chapala and Pedregal received an intensive training from the artisan Jesús Rivera, who has more than 15 years of experience in the craft industry.
The participants spent 4 hours a day learning different techniques of jewelry. During the course several stages were covered: first, each participant received a tool kit that included a mototool Dremel, set of pliers, scissors, drill bits, safety glasses, sandpapers, staples, etc. A walk for material collection and inspection of the area was carried out; shells, stones and wood were collected. A drawing session and design techniques was given, also, crimping techniques, templates, finishes and quality control. The participants did exercises on marketing, costs and budgets of the products.
It was incredible to see how in a few days the participants were transforming shells, stones and wood into handicraft, each one with their own style. This is how they made pairs of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It was also very pleasant to see how the group became a group of artisans aware of the natural resources that surround them and now have a tool to use them in a sustainable way.
To close the workshop, an exhibition of all the handicrafts was made; a long table with a red tablecloth was the center of attention that afternoon. With background music and food to share, the now artisans took photos and proudly showed their creations.
Soon you will be able to acquire their crafts in San Quintín and in our offices!
This workshop was carried out thanks to the financing of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA).
