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We hope that our shop offers both the beautiful handmade pieces from the countries and cultures we have visited, as well as indications of the people who made them. Each rug represents the woman or women who wove it, just as a painting was created by an artist.
For example, the section on hats shows a bit of the culture of each country. When we look at an antique wedding hat from Kyrgyzstan, we can marvel at the skill and care of a bride sewing more than 100 years ago, possibly living in a mud hut.
In our shop, you can see pictures of many people from all the places we have traveled. We also have a selection of books to share on the rugs and crafts of Central Asia, as well as all the other countries represented in Music for the Eyes. Please click on a category below to view more pictures!
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People
Our pictures include many people from Central Asia (the "stans" in the former Soviet Union) and Africa, as we spent significant time in our diplomatic career in those areas. We want to bring new photos to this gallery from our future travel adventures.
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Felt, New Rugs, Old Rugs, and Trappings
When tribal peoples wanted to decorate their homes or caravans, they looked to the skill of their women rather than a trip to the Pottery Barn. That is why you can find a changing wide variety of trappings you can enjoy in our shop or even purchase for display in your home.
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Hats
The first view customers see when they walk into our store is a row of heads topped by hats from different countries. They often try these on (gently), look in the mirror, and have their friends take their pictures.
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Jewelery
Our selection of jewelry is becoming larger with each of our shopping trips. In addition, we are now showing jewelry made by Sharon (one of the owners), as well as Natalie, a long-time glass maker on Whidbey Island.
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Textiles
Many people are learning to use handmade textiles to add a unique, personal expression of beauty to their home. A few unusual items on the walls or tables can change the atmosphere from the one seen in most large chain stores and housing developments.
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Robes
We're not trying to be a clothing store, but show colorful old robes as an expression of cultures which brought the use of handmade textiles to the real status of art. Not only can you hang one of our robes on the wall, but you can also take it down and wear it to a party with your jeans.
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Beads
Our focus as a bead shop is to offer a selection of unusual beads...a few unique and high-end, and some great bargains. We don't have room for the usual seed beads, Czech crystals or findings.
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Cushions
The use of cushions is a quick and inexpensive way to brighten and decorate your home. Think about buying a bright orange cushion made by Berber tribes in Morocco...or adding temporary seating to a room by utilizing huge stuffed saddlebags from Afghanistan.
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Fun Stuff
Please visit our shop frequently, as the content is always changing. On each of our shopping trips, we are looking for something new and fun...perhaps an unusual musical instrument or a head ornament from a local tribe! |
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