Peguche...In the morning we went to the world-famous Otavalo artisan market. There, we were immersed in all sorts of wondrous crafts -- clothing, jewelry, tapestries, sculpture, etc. It was really nice to see all sorts of art works and I got a couple of gifts while I was there. Walking around, I felt exceptionally lucky to be where I was. I felt a little bad too -- the economics of it all made me feel guilty. I felt privileged -- too privileged -- to be there. There I was spending all sorts of money while a four or five year old girl (who looked like she might not ever have a childhood) was vending me goods. On the other hand, though, I feel that me spending money on the Otavalo artisan work is a direct way for me to support and help them. Granted it is not the same as me helping them in a more significant manner, it is at least something nonetheless.
After we visited the market, we went to a small town outside of Otavalo called Peguche. There, we learned a lot of the artisan facts and local history of the Otavalo region. We also had the chance to see a presentation over Andean instruments. Pictured above was an amazing performance by the man who gave the presentation and what appeared to be his two daughters. Afterwards, I bought a CD.
