Been there, done that, got the mahout shirt?

By John Roberts 4 July 2008 03:39:00

    Well, think again, gone are the days of sackcloth and ashes for our graduates; nowadays, should you pass your mahout test, you will receive a fancy decorated mohom from ladies of the Izara Arts project and Khom Loy Foundation.

    Izara Arts had the great idea to try to help the ladies from the various ethnic minorities dotted through the mountains of the Golden Triangle by bringing in professional designers to use their traditional weaving patterns in designs.

    Subtle touches of ethnicity rather than pure ethnic - let's face it you'd look a little odd going down to the hardware store in full Akha dress or carving up the lasagna as a Hmong matriarch but in buying an Izara garment you're doing just as much, if not more, good than we're you to pick up the plastic cowrie shell bedecked bodice that will sit in your closet 'til the moths get it or it goes to the jumble sale.

    The main genius of Izara is that they've combined the different traditional patterns from each ethnic group and combined them in the same garment so turning out unique garments that are not only wearable but are an amalgam of all the patchwork of peoples that inhabit our hills.

    We liked the idea so much we had them do their stuff to our graduation mohoms and so, from now on, not only yourselves but also our local ladies will benefit, providing you pass your test that is - so pay attention in class it's not just you and an ele-dung certificate anymore! 

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Saving Elephants from Abuse on the Streets

Topic: Ways to Make a Difference | Rating: 0

Posted by: Izara Arts Development Project Feb 18, 2008 | 1:25:10 AM 

Izara Arts has joined forces with the Anantara Elephant Camp.

Izara Arts is now making the outfits
traditionally worn by "mahouts," or trainers at the Anantara. These
distinctive uniforms are given to guests who take part in the training
courses offered at the elephant camp. They are not only giving work
to the women who sew the Akha and Hmong patterns, but also raising money
to help protect one of Thailand's most noble creatures.

The program aims to rescue elephants
from illegal and abusive work in the streets, while educating the mahouts
who ride them. They teach willing trainers to care for their
elephants, and how to treat the animals with the respect they deserve --
you can find more information at the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation.

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