Handmade Wool Ornaments in Honey from Peru (Pair) - Honey Holiday

Artisan Organization: Marleni Tenorio

Country: Andes

"My name is Marleni Tenorio Rivera. I was born in Vilcashuamán, meaning ‘Sacred Hawk’ in Quechua. My home belongs to the historic and traditional department of Ayacucho, a land that is sacred not only for its incredible architecture, but also because it is known as the ‘city of churches.’ I love living in a place filled with history that also has the best artists of Peru. Vilcashuamán and the surrounding areas have its most important buildings: the Sun Temple and El Ushnu, which have endured until today. Some believe that this city once took the shape of a hawk, and El Ushnu occupied the place of its head.

"I consider myself to be a very friendly, respectable, hardworking, and entrepreneurial woman. I have lived through some very difficult times. It was very hard becoming a mother at an early age in a difficult relationship. I have two handsome children. I feel blessed, because they give me the strength needed to be able to carry on. I decided to work tirelessly for my children so that they can fulfill their dreams.

"My plan for the future is to be a greatly renowned artist in what I do. I love creating handwoven textiles, something which requires a lot of patience, perseverance, a great sense of humor, but above all, love for what you do.

"My inspiration was born here in my village and my daily life. I am inspired by the landscapes, the animals, and the freedom that characterizes nature. Above all, my children encourage me to create and carry on.

"For me, crocheting became an opportunity for development and growth when I most needed it. It became my true passion as I noticed that my designs were becoming better and I went on perfecting my technique. Creating these accessories fills my heart; the knowledge that other children and people can enjoy them and use them as decoration makes me very happy, knowing that the destiny of my art is to touch the heart of each customer.

"Here in my small workshop in the department of Ayacucho, I am convinced that my art contributes to the well-being of my community. It offers work to single mothers, and we also actively interact with the tourists who visit our zone. Because of this, the quality of our pieces is very important, above all the love with which we develop our craft.

"Thanks to the help of my close friends and the people of my village, I have been able to advance, always persevering with a lot of strength in order to achieve my goals little by little. I am very happy to be a part of the Novica family. I never imagined being able to share my art from my humble village with foreigners. I am so happy and thankful." "