Women, ex-combatants, returned refugees, single mothers, marginalized communities - these are the Salvadoran artists with whom the CIS works.  These artisans have formed cooperatives founded on the principles of fair wages, communal ownership, humane working conditions, and democratic participation.  Their cooperatives are sources of encouragement and support.  They struggle to compete with sweatshops, carry out their visions, and provide food, healthcare, and education to their families.

Through the artisan program, the CIS does more than sell and distribute crafts made by local cooperatives.  We encourage strategies that empower local communities.  By buying our crafts or selling them at your community events and local craft stores, you support the initiatives of the cooperatives in their search for an alternative economic model that supports the artisan and their community.

To Place an Order 

Browse the catalogue using the menu on the left, and contact us to place an order at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Thank you for your support!