This is the year my Christmas won’t be Made in China. Instead of the usual commercial shiny things we all know and love, I’m aiming for a simpler reminder of what the holiday is all about. Decorations, cards, and gifts will reflect skill, art, and natural materials instead of glossy plastic and machined perfection. My sources will be local craftsman, a few boutique stores, and several charities.
A stroll through the mercado de artesanias in Masaya, Nicaragua last weekend was the starting point.
Just a typical aisle in the market which is located in an old colonial building with plenty of light and a restaurant on one side.
Most of the textiles in the mercado are from Guatemala. We saw scarves, table runners, and placemats but only a few larger pieces.
The terracotta pots on top look like smiling faces. Or maybe the Kool-Aid jug guy.
I had a sizzling pollo a la plancha after a day of hard shopping and it was delicious. Washed it down with a local beer and was ready to spend a little more!
This beautiful plate is typical of the colors and motifs found in Nicaraguan pottery.
