VIRTUAL marketplace The Artisans Haven is hosting a curated series of artisan pop-up shops across the Klang Valley.
In the spirit of Merdeka, the pop-ups aim to market outstanding locally-made items and handcrafted products created by a collective of talented Malaysian artisans.
The artisanal stores aim to highlight and showcase these products to drive awareness and appreciation for local artisans and their craftsmanship.
Thus, enabling handicraft lovers and visitors to physically experience the timeless crafts made by Malaysians.
The pop-up shops onboard 100 local artisans and feature their work for at least three months across three high-traffic outlets in the Bukit Bintang area — Malaysia Grand Bazaar Bukit Bintang City Centre, Fahrenheit 88 and Tokyo Street Pavilion KL — and one outlet each at Damansara City Mall and The Linc KL.
The Artisans Haven co-founder Jade Lee said visitors can see and experience the most intricate, creative, and bespoke products that are made with the heart and soul of many talented individuals.
“These artisans may have previously not had the medium nor necessary resources to promote their crafts and reach their target audiences on a larger scale. These pop-up shops look to directly address this issue and provide artisans with a home base.”
This one-stop shop of artisanal products also endeavours to give foreign tourists and visitors from all over the world a chance to bring home their favourite souvenirs that awaken fond memories of Malaysia.
Featuring items ranging from heavenly aromatic hand-poured candles, flamboyant encrusted rhinestone clutch box bags to well-adorned pearl necklaces and comforting wellness kits made with love by indigenous Orang Asli mothers, the brands participating in the fairs include Gocheeks, The Asli Co, Candle Pit Stop, I am KL and Rebecca Creations, among others.
Artwork by Hands & Brush by Sashtri (left) and Kirtanraw. The Artisans Haven is also showcasing a series of Merdeka-themed artwork, featuring local artists
The Artisans Haven is also showcasing a series of Merdeka-themed artwork, featuring local artists such as Kirtanraw, Ruful McKenzie, Hand & Brush by Sashtri and Wani Art.
The pieces are a celebration of the rich local history, culture and myriad of identities that make up Malaysia today.
“This niche yet collaborative community of spirit-fuelled, artistic individuals has contributed significantly to rekindling the love for Malaysian culture and heritage, in tandem with strengthening the country’s economy.
“Additionally, there is no charge to the artisans. This is our way of making sure that these artisans not only get the love they deserve, but also the income they need to sustain their livelihoods,” said Lee.
Keeping the ethos of “Handmade is Heartmade” in mind, to-date The Artisans Haven has accommodated over 1,000 small businesses and brands on the platform.
Visit https://www.artisanshaven.com.my/ and https://www.market.artisanshaven.com.my/ for more information. — by TMR / pic The Artisans Haven