Botella Geometrica Vase

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This fair trade vase was made by Leandro Lopez, a Nicaraguan artisan. He works with Chaka MarketBridge, a fair trade company that is committed to fair trade practices and strives to bring artisans’ products to the global marketplace.

• Handmade by artisans in Nicaragua
• Clay vase with a hand carved hexagon design
• 5” diameter x 14.5” height x 4.5” width
• Looks great with dried flowers or as a stand alone piece

At 21 years old, Leandro Lopez represents the next generation of artisans in San Juan de Oriente. Son of Fanor Lopez & Candida Cano, and the nephew of Duilio Jimenez, Leandro’s dream was always to be an architect. An ambition and talent easily evidenced by his handiwork—his favorites are the designs that he calls “infinito” and “geometrico.” Although he notes that they weren’t always perfect, the intricate patterns that he etches into his ceramics are truly captivating.

Sharing space in his parent’s store, it is evident that Leandro is a product of the community. You can recognize his uncle Duilio’s inspiration in his pieces and can appreciate the importance of his family to watch him joke with his brothers.

Now supporting a son of his own, Leandro has had to put his dream of becoming an architect on hold. Instead, his ceramics are his craft, his artistic outlet. However, Leandro has not given up—someday, he says that he’ll return to school to continue to pursue his dream. Evidenced in his interview with Chaka, Leandro is full of pride in what he does, and full of hope that, one day, his ceramic business will put him through school and help him realize his dream.