Artijaan supports artisans

In countries experiencing difficult political and economic situations.
And finding themselves isolated from the international market.

9 Ancestrals crafts

Embroidery, Jewelry, Woodcarving, Glass-blowing, Ceramics, Rug-making, Tailoring, Wool-spinning, Beadsworks

40+ artisans & 20 women’s network

We collaborate with more than 40 artisans across Afghanistan

Our artisans partners

Contemporary designs

Our shop

1000 indirect beneficiaries

The origin of the project

A curiosity for exploring cultures and connecting worlds has been a passion for Artijaan co-founder and president Belinda Idriss ever since she was young.

We wanted to highlight the beauty and nuance that craftsmanship brings in countries affected by war or currently experiencing unstable political and economic context.”

– Belinda Idriss, Artijaan President and Co-founder

We connect artisans in developing countries with conscious consumers in more economically developed countries.

In developing countries, the handicraft sector is the second largest employer after agriculture, yet many skilled traditional artisans lack access to markets, visibility and financing to secure their livelihoods.

At the same time, consumers in more economically developed countries are increasingly weary of mass-produced, soulless, environmentally unsustainable and unethically sourced products. Traditional artisans offer an alternative for those looking for unique, ethically-sourced, environmentally sustainable and superior quality products with a story and an individual identity to which they can emotionally connect.

Artijaan is the bridge between these two worlds.

We offer communities of artisans the opportunity to preserve the rich heritage of their traditional practices and be fairly remunerated for their work. And we also offer consumers the chance to connect with the stories and culture of the craftworkers, and the sense of satisfaction that comes from supporting ethical and sustainable production practices with a social impact.

Our mission

Supporting artisans in global south countries.
Creating sustainable livelihood opportunities through the preservation and valorization of centuries-old craftsmanship.

Connecting traditional makers from around global south countries with conscious buyers throughout the world.

By creating and curating ethically handcrafted pieces, we want to share artisans’ stories and remarkable talents with you.

What makes Artijaan unique?

On-site presence

Operate in a challenging and remote environment

Artijaan operates in and supports artisans from countries facing challenging political and economic conditions, often isolated from the international market.

Clear contribution

Create sustainable livelihood opportunities

Thanks to our partnership with ACTED, Artijaan contributes to support locals through craftsmanship training, providing them with autonomy and a fair income.