The Soapbox Series Vol. 4

Defining what handmade actually means…

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Artisan Jose Sarinana at work in his studio in Tijuana

We use the term “handmade” because it feels bespoke, unique, and connects to the idea that a product was made with care. However, what has gotten lost in the marketing jargon is what it actually means for something to be made by a person.

Over the past four years, THE CO-OP BAJA has largely been considered a distribution point for Mexican-made items for home and hospitality. However, a huge part of the work we’ve done with artisans across disciplines has been to educate ourselves about what goes into their respective craftsmanship, and to support their growth. You might say we have acted more as an agency than a traditional shop, and the knowledge earned has been a gift.

And so with that in mind, we step atop the soapbox for a mini-series to dive a little deeper into process and the human value that “handmade” actually holds.

TERRAZZO

Terrazzo is a beautiful, durable, and functional material that can be elegantly and effectively used for table tops, decor, and finishings like bathroom sinks. It happens to be one of our favorite “set it and forget it” materials for outdoor furniture in particular; it sustains well through wind, sun, salt, sand and rain with a hefty dose of flair.

To create the Terrazzo y Concreto Decorativo pieces that you’ll find a few remaining pieces for sale in the shop, the artisan is completely covered due to the toxicity of the materials used to create the base. It’s not unlike mixing concrete to build a home, however the workshop has to be indoors because sand or outside elements can affect the consistency and appearance of the work.

Once the base is set, José designs each piece with different colored concrete, stone, glass, and found object accents. And while José's terrazzo work is remarkable, as with many of the artisans with whom we collaborate, it is not the only medium he works in; he is also an exceptional surfboard shaper and laminator. And so once formed, José then spends hours polishing terrazzo, the result is both stunning and protective.

Moroccan-inspired terrazzo coffee table and pouf set, in stock for sale.

Handmade in this instance means one person, performing each step, in a volatile environment; simply for the joy of creating something that sits at the crossroads of function and art. While we have worked exclusively with José for the past few years, there are wonderful artisans throughout Baja and mainland working in this medium. We encourage you to seek them out and honor the process, or visit us in Todos Santos and take something remarkable home with you.

The Soapbox Series is presented by Know Your Water Baja: Water testing & filtration system solutions crafted by Drew Reinstein; a 20 year veteran toxicologist & marine biologist certified by the EPA, and California Departments of Toxic Substances Control & Health Services.

Learn more below!