Inspired by the Clinton Foundation’s urgent call for American businesses to aid in the rebuilding of Haiti’s economy in the aftermath of the January 2010 earthquake, Macy’s will launch a new home décor collection called “The Heart of Haiti” this October.
The line, designed by artisan survivors of the 2010 earthquake, will feature traditional Haitian handmade goods including metalwork, ceramics, wood-carvings, paintings, and jewelry. Currently, more than 200 artisans are at work full-time on the new collection. Partnering with local artisan groups in Haiti, such as a women’s quilting cooperative in Cite Soleil and a blacksmith community in Croix de Bouquets, Macy’s hopes “The Heart of Haiti” will help to create a sustainable economic model.
Macy’s also carries products made by artisans across the developing globe, including Rwandan “Path to Peace” baskets, which have provided thousands of survivors of Rwanda’s 1994 conflict with work, education, healthcare, clean water, food, and dignity.
They already stock some handmade Haitian products through Fair Winds Trading (FWT), including this Large bowl ($35) (top) and Coral Hurricane Candle Holder ($60). The style and décor of the “Heart of Haiti” Collection will be similar to FWT products, but the initiatives are separate. The “Heart of Haiti” collection will be available in 25 Macy’s stores nationwide and on macys.com. For more information, see the growing “Heart of Haiti” Collection.
