FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE New York, NY (August 17, 2017) – Iken will be featured at NY NOW’s Innovation Showcase at the HANDMADE Global Design Booth 642. The HANDMADE Global Design section highlights craft and artisanship from around the world, and will run from August 19 through August 22 at the Javits Center in the River Pavilion.
Founded in 2014, I.ken empowers Guatemalan artisans through design to create modern pieces that promote their cultural heritage, earn fair wages, and meet the growing demand for unique, locally sourced products. These products include handcrafted bags and a range of accessories that incorporate backstrap weaving, brocade, and leather work.
I.ken was born out of a love for the Mayan weaving tradition and artisan leather crafting, a deep engagement with community development in rural Guatemala, and an idea to transform the way companies work with indigenous artisans. As a social enterprise, we invest earnings in our artisan partners so they can receive training and support that facilitates their development, growth, and pathways to economic empowerment.
We invite you to join us this month at NY NOW to learn more about the craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and socioeconomic empowerment embedded in our one-of-kind pieces.