Siwok Craft Project
For centuries the Wichi people have lived in the scrub forest of Northern Argentina, an area known as the ‘Chaco’, following their traditional life as hunters and gatherers. Today numerous changes and challenges confront Wichi communities as the relentless advance of ‘civilization’ consumes all in its path. It’s within this context that the Anglican Church has stood and continues to stand alongside the Wichi people. The Siwok craft project which the diocese of Down and Dromore has been supporting is a really hands on and practical way to support Wichi communities through purchasing the quality products which they make. Siwok is a Wichi name for the red-crested woodpecker which is a typical bird in the Argentine Chaco. The Siwok project supports disadvantaged communities by providing employment opportunities, thus maintaining people’s dignity.Siwok is a socio & ecologically sustainable enterprise that produces crafts with the Wichi communities and the urban poor of North West Argentina.
All items are hand crafted in local woods.
Green Palo Santo
Red Quebracho
Black Guayacan
Yellow Mora
White Cow Bone
Living trees are never cut down and used in the making of Siwok carvings.
Work was started in 1980 and now gives a living income to more than 100 Wichi families and more than 40 urban families. This initiative offers people an alternative to migrating to towns and cities where they often loose their health, language and culture.
SAMS Ireland in conjunction with the diocese of Down and Dromore are committed to working in partnership with the Wichi people within a 21st century setting. Geoff Hamilton (SAMS Ireland Development Officer) had the opportunity to visit several Wichi communities and the following observations give an insight into this work.
"As the sun set, a group of Wichi men started to gather; the silence was noticeable as the numbers grew. With the noise of fluttering insects bustling around, men quietly and methodically approached the small table at which Alejandro the project manager and myself sat. I was amazed as remnants of material opened up and revealed skilfully made crafts. Alejandro inspected each piece of work and depending on the quality he paid each person accordingly. One man over a period of time had banked his earnings and that evening he was given a new bicycle, what a joy to be part of this moment. The relational dimension built up over decades between Alejandro and the Wichi was evident."
SAMS Ireland values your support in this enterprise. Many thanks to the numerous churches within the diocese who have bought and sold Siwok items over these past months. We have sold several thousand pounds to date. Please feel free to contact us at SAMS if you would like to purchase Siwok crafts or if your church would like to sell a selection of crafts on a sale or return basis. Denis or Geoff can be contacted via
SAMS HOUSE, 1 Irwin Crescent, Lurgan, Craigavon BT66 7EZ
Tel: (028) 3831 0144
info@samsireland.com
Also visit the SIWOK website (click here)