Made in China

I was watching a show on Comedy Central today featuring comedian Jeff Dunham. Dunham is a ventriloquist and has a variety of puppets that he uses in his show. One such skeleton puppet 'Achmed the Dead Terrorist', does not believe he is Middle Eastern or Muslim because he has a 'Made in China' sticker stamped on his rear.

This skit although funny reminded me that we live in a world where increasingly the diversity of products and craftsman ship is being sacrificed in the name of cheap prices and disposable goods. Globalization wears the twin masks of comedy and tragedy. 'Made in China' unfortunately has come to be associated with cheap quality, toxic products and recalls.

This computerization of industries and standardization of products and services has led to a 'cloning' of art. The objects that surround us today are often mass produceed in factories, the creative concept of a global corporation. Every time I go to Bed Bath and Beyond or one of the big box home stores I cringe when I see the canned pieces that masquerade as 'art'.


Unlike today, during the Renaissance people were encouraged to use their God given talents. Artists were held in high esteem and the arts flourished. Today art and music programs are constantly cut due to lack of funds. Children are being left behind not just in reading, writing and math but also the liberal arts. Current educational curriculum often ignores the development of emotional intelligence and often stifles creative thought.

However just as every action has a reaction. I believe a new movement has begun. Trends like buying local foods and eating seasonal items have also influenced peoples choices in art and design. I and many people I know are finding ways to keep art and beauty alive often in sustainable and practical ways. I try to buy items that are made from local artists instead of buying factory made items. My husband and I visited the Garlic art festival last year and I bought a beautiful pottery garlic holder with dragonfly on the lid. It is a beautiful memento of that day and it brightens up my kitchen. Visiting local art and craft festivals, farmers markets and other community events opens your eyes to the beauty and vitality of one's neighborhood. Hand made items may cost more but their benefits are far reaching.

By supporting artists from your family, society or country you can support local economies and help lift people out of poverty. By buying hand made items we can keep the skills and knowledge that has been passed down through the centuries alive. As for me I prefer ‘Handmade in China’