Nahuizalco Inaugurates M Gallery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2005-12-02
USAID Strategic Development Office: (503) 2501-3471
U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section: (503) 2501-2471
www.usaid.gov/sv

General view of the M Gallery in Nahuizalco, Sonsonate, a project made possible through USAID Artisan Development Program, with support from the National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises.

Today the United States Government, through its Agency for International Development (USAID), announced the inauguration of M Gallery, a project that’s part of USAID’s Strategy to Revitalize the Artisan Sector with the support of the National Commission for Micro and Small Businesses (CONAMYPE in Spanish).

M Gallery is a new contemporaneous furniture concept that artisans from four workshops have created in conjunction with three designers from the non governmental organization Aid to Artisans.  The furniture line combines traditional raw materials with unique designs.  M Gallery will display a furniture and home accessories collection that’s true to the season through the distinct shades, textures and tones of the local wood.

The gallery is located at the Center for Artisan Development (CEDART in Spanish) in Nahuizalco, Sonsonate.

The participating workshops in the project all have their own manufacturing style.  The “Artema” workshop is known for its cane style for living rooms.  “Muebles Sofía’s” strength lies in its pantries and its geometric minimalist line, especially for bathroom accessories.  “Taller Hernández” specializes in fabrics made with natural fibers applied to furniture such as night stands.  “El Cital” specializes in unique wood accessories, like lamps, CD holders, among others.

USAID has contributed $2.6 million through its artisan development program, assisting in the expansion of more than 3,214 small and medium artisans businesses, and the generation of 2,820 new jobs.  International and domestic sales have reached over $1.7 million, among other achievements.