In Fall 2014 I taught at Kathmandu University as a Fulbright Scholar and pursued research. I taught courses on how to successfully work with Nepalese artisans to preserve their UNESCO recognized Cultural Heritage of arts and crafts knowledge, techniques and symbols and create sustainable fair-wage income for the low-income artisans. This allows the artisans to continue their arts practices and positive change for their families through their earnings to provide better nutrition, shelter, health care and education. 

The students learned Fair Trade Business Skills and Design Skills to create products that do preserve their countries traditional cultural heritage in the arts and at the same time create contemporary art products that will expand the artisans' sales in local, national and international market. The students also learned how to lead the artisans in continuing to make traditional collectable art pieces. 

Below you will see examples from the Fall 2014 Kathmandu University Center for Art and Design Products. Enjoy!

Dawa Omu Jewelry