ABOUT US
Artefacto is a social enterprise and web store, based in Mexico City, promoting traditional Mexican crafts. We offer a unique selection of meaningful crafts while making a positive social and environmental impact.
We strongly believe that the truth and beauty of Mexican culture lie in its diverse native crafts and that these are vital contributors to our cultural prosperity, identity and environmental well-being.
WHY CRAFTS?
Traditionally made crafts are being threatened due to a globalised market saturated with low quality, disposable products that are often detrimental to the environment.
Despite their contributions, rural indigenous artisans in Mexico and worldwide remain largely in poverty. As a result, many traditional crafts are at risk. A big part of this problem lies in the lack of adequate access to crafts.
WHAT WE DO DIFFERENTLY
The way we address this is by offering a unique, meaningful, ethically sourced collection of crafts at fair prices while providing a sustained income to rural artisans and their families throughout Mexico. Furthermore, we inform craft makers about market trends and encourage the creation of new and innovative crafts through commissions.
THE TEAM
We are a dedicated team devoted to crafts and passionate about our business. We have extensive experience trading traditional crafts, working and cultivating a shared intimate space of interaction with indigenous artisans throughout Mexico.
Juan Scott
Creative director
Juan is a creative entrepreneur, designer and emerging curator. A passionate advocate for traditional crafts, he has been immersed in the visual arts from a very young age.
He has extensive experience in the retail and creative sector, having worked for several shops, museums and galleries. He is responsible for the design and content of this website as well as the selection of all the crafts in our collection.
Bel A.
Sales
Bel is responsible for customer service, communication and sales and she is also partially engaged in the supply chain. Her background in public relationships has contributed to building the company’s network of partners and suppliers. She has devised various marketing strategies using social media tools. Her outstanding organisational capabilities is demonstrated most notably in the Cocoa for All Festival in Mexico City.
Our values
Sustainability
Given the significant threats of climate change, the need to adopt a less wasteful way of living is more pressing than ever. We all have a responsibility to work sustainably and we believe there is a substantial contribution from within the craft sector.
Authenticity
In a world where technology and digitalisation make possible the instant and often passive consumption of everything, there is an increasing desire for authenticity. We have the highest respect for the nature, integrity and authenticity of indigenous artistic expression.
Empowerment
We empower artisans with valuable information, tools and a sustained income. On the other hand, we empower users by offering choices for sustainable products, which have meaning and detailed information regarding their origin and story behind.
Fair and just prices
We conduct our business in a fair and transparent fashion. Every artisan is paid fairly and in advance. We do not stock products on consignment and as a result every single product we have on offer has been paid in full. On the other hand, we strive to make our prices as accessible as possible.
Aesthetics
We are deeply inspired by traditional indigenous aesthetics and its powerful cultural significance. We strive to share the beauty and stories of handicrafts.
Good design
We believe in the power of an honest, harmonious and respectful design. Rather than impose a design, we embrace and respect artisan’s original creations, while exploring respectful creative collaborations. We strive to create beautiful and inspiring content, while communicating the complex world of crafts.