Fundación Callotl

Artisan Organization: Fundación Callotl

Country: Central America

"Founded in 2014 in San Salvador, El Salvador, the Artisans of Costa del Sol are a remarkable group brought together by the vision of the Doménech Foundation. Recognizing the economic challenges faced by many families in the Jaltepeque estuary basin, the Foundation conducted a comprehensive assessment of sustainable raw materials and artisanal potential in the region. This exploration revealed a surplus of coconut, an abundant and renewable resource, previously underutilized and often burned as firewood.

"In addition to a scarcity of artisanal identity in the area, these findings paved the way for the birth of an artisanal component within the Callotl project. This endeavor was meticulously tailored to meet the needs of participants, providing educational materials, tool selection, materials, and seed capital for crafting coconut and gourd-based products.

"The primary mission of the Artisans of Costa del Sol is to offer employment opportunities to community members while creating unique, sustainable products that blend craftsmanship, culture, and environmental responsibility. Their goals encompass fostering collaboration among various artisanal groups, ensuring project self-sustainability, maintaining the workshop, tools, and equipment, and finding outlets in an increasingly competitive market.

"Over the years, more than 30 artisans have been trained in the production of handmade goods, resulting in over 300 uniquely designed products born from the collaboration between designers and artisans. These dedicated individuals have crafted over 6,000 items using sustainable raw materials, including personal and home accessories. They've also established a state-of-the-art workshop, the Abraham Safie Training Center, equipped with essential tools and machinery.

"For the artisans of Costa del Sol, this venture is not just an additional source of income but also an opportunity to acquire knowledge in previously unimagined areas of life, including cosmetics, sewing, equipment operation, tool handling, collaboration with designers, and sales. Their satisfaction stems from crafting products with local resources that enhance the quality of life for people, not only within their country's borders but also beyond. For the Foundation's designers and technicians, it's been an experience that fosters understanding and empathy for the social reality of the Costa del Sol communities, raises awareness about environmental conservation, and promotes mutual learning with artisans.

"In recognition of their entrepreneurial efforts and commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development, the President of the Doménech Foundation was awarded the ASI 2023 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Salvadoran Association of Industrialists (ASI).

"Every workday shared among these artisans is marked by fun moments and anecdotes from their daily lives. The artisan groups receive larger orders approximately every three months to replenish products with higher demand at different sales points. Additionally, smaller, more personalized orders are requested on a monthly basis.

"The Artisans of Costa del Sol are dedicated to preserving traditional artisanal practices, creatively applying them to coconut-based materials, and drawing inspiration from the abundant natural beauty of the Ramsar Complex of Jaltepeque. Their creations are not just products but a reflection of the flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes of the region.

"The primary material they use is coconut, a versatile fruit where every part is fully utilized. From coconut shells, artisans create jewelry, personal and household accessories, containers, and more, employing a combination of manual techniques and machinery. Coconut oil is extracted from dried coconuts, while coconut meat is dehydrated and grated to add texture to soaps and exfoliating creams. Additionally, coconut coir fiber is used for decorative and protective packaging of products. The harvesting of coconuts involves strenuous physical labor, perseverance, and long workdays, often in challenging conditions.

"Some products incorporate reclaimed sea wood, remnants of fabric, and recycled paper, promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly approach.

"The Artisans of Costa del Sol produce functional and quality items, representing the dedication, talents, time, energy, and love of many people who work tirelessly. Their creations are a testament to collaboration, tradition, and a profound respect for the environment, each bearing the tropical heart of the artisans and collaborators of Costa del Sol.""