A view of international artwork from your own back yard is available at Artisans International.
On Saturday, along with art from Peru, Brazil, Mexico, Nicaragua, Poland, Russia, Switzerland, Italy, Bulgaria, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, Congo-Zaire, Madagascar, Thailand, New Zealand, Nepal, Indonesia and the U.S., music from the Andes was also provided at the Minden art gallery.
The musical group Sonkollay Peru, performed on wind and percussion instruments that have been around since well before the birth of Christ. Types of instruments include: The zampoña, a panpipe that was used for calling people to worship services and rites of passage; the quena, a flute made out of wood or bamboo; and the chajcha, rattles made from goat hooves. The group consists of local residents Johnny Cano, Pedro Leon, Edgar Ramos and Gene Ramos.
Another instrument used by the group is the charango, a 10-stringed instrument made out of wood and an armadillo shell. In the 16th century, the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors ended the Inkan empire. However, it was the start of many new changes musically. The Spaniards brought instruments that had never before been seen, such as guitars, mandolins, lutes and harps. With this introduction of strange instruments, the Andean people created the charango.
The music of the Andean culture, full of poetry in the ancient tongue, has persevered over the years. According to Sonkollay Peru members, it reminds them of their ancestors and of Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) as thanks is given for "her generous gifts, including the joy of music."
Artisans International is located in Minden Village at 1653 Lucerne Street, Suite B, across from Wasabi's Asian Bistro. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bronwyn Mason, founder and owner of the gallery, offers a selection of original and one-of-a-kind art from around the world. Art is made from mediums such as glass, fiber, wood ceramics, wire beads, metal, recycled materials, and there also is jewelry. Forty-five artists/groups represent 25 countries. Several of the artist groups are non-profit co-ops organized to assist women in gaining economic independence.
A limited selection of the artwork can be viewed on the Web site, www.artisansinternationalinc.com or call 783-8881 for more information.
