Manos del Uruguay: Exploring the Inherent Tensions between Localism and the Global Craft Economy

Abstract

This paper is a discussion of the tensions between localism and globalism and their subsequent effects on the artisanal craft industry within the prevailing dynamics of the hegemonic capitalist market place. Global demand for artisanal craft has enabled a spatial relationship between producer and consumer, creating a sense of place that transcends traditional localities. Drawing from the Sumak Kawsay cosmology, this study suggests alternative, non-market-based solutions in achieving a “rooted sense of place” that encourages economic and environmental sustainability for textile cooperatives in Latin America. Through extensive participatory observation and interviews, this study presents an in-depth case study of the Uruguayan textiles cooperative Manos del Uruguay in order to understand how the lives of artisans are affected by the global commodification of local crafts. While navigating the global market and establishing a human connection between the artisans and consumers, Manos del Uruguay has succeeded in remaining adaptive and crafting a global sense of place. However, there is a fundamental need to reconnect artisans to their means of production and lessen the dependence on Western consumers and market forces to ensure ethical distribution and management of natural resources.

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