AKANKETAI
$461
Akanketai, which means balls in the Shuar language.
A versatile belt that can be used as a belt or top. It is made with the jute mix, traditional Otavaleño fabric, indigenous sash and decorated with balls of different textiles in various sizes.
- 9 -12 cm wide.
- Handwoven faja made by artisans from Otavalo community in Ecuador. Give back to the community through One 1 One program.
The “faja” (band) used to made this belt was handmade in a wooden loom by artisans in Otavalo, Ecuador. They are known for their beautiful handcrafts, especially textiles.
Taarach small atelier makes unique pieces transforming the Andean faja into contemporary belts.
Each belt is handmade with strict parameters of ethics and sustainability: we asure welfare to the people involved in making the belts., we have a zero waste policy, we generate a positive impact on the community and rescue and preserve indigenous crafts and cultural elements.
History shows that indigenous people from Los Andes and ethnic groups from all around the world, have used the traditional “faja” (band) as part of their clothing. The "faja" band could be used only as a decorative element, or for showing status, mythical or medical purposes.
This belts rescue and preserve elements of Andean cultures. The “faja” looming tradition is loosing importance; still there are some artisans like María and her family that continue living from it.
A portion of the value of each belt is donated to children in need in Ecuador. The project supports children and teenagers to recieve an apropiate education.
With the purchase of this belt, Taarach donates resources that allow to provide one daily lunch to a child for one month (the One 1 One project).