Thumbprint Artifacts was conceived by us, life-long friends Becky Riess and Kris Engle, both Michigan born where we met at the age of 10. Years later in 2012, we found ourselves at a crossroads in our careers and felt it was time to ‘give back’ using the knowledge and experiences of our past; Becky’s in sales & marketing with Kimberly Clark Corporation, and Kris’s entrepreneurial life that took her to the UK, India and South Africa.
We wanted to recognize entrepreneurial spirit by providing fairly traded artisan companies in South Africa, a country with 45% unemployment in ages 21 -35, growth opportunities by opening a new market for their products. This would translate into sustainable employment for not only themselves, but support for their families and communities.
About Us
Our 'cycle of success' is created by purchasing directly from the artisans, therefore each item we sell positively impacts employment security and assists to build sustainable and profitable businesses. Most of our artisans are women, primarily single mothers, who all take great pride in their work. Considering the extended families that each artisan supports, Thumbprint Artifacts is currently touching the lives of approximately 1560 people.
We are proud to represent unique, high quality, fair trade home decor items that are hand made in South Africa. As every thumbprint is unique, so are these inspirational artisan products - each hand-crafted item is its own piece of art! We hope you will take this meaningful journey with us.
We are proud to represent unique, high quality, fair trade home decor items that are hand made in South Africa. As every thumbprint is unique, so are these inspirational artisan products - each hand-crafted item is its own piece of art! We hope you will take this meaningful journey with us.
Happy shopping and on behalf of our artisans, we thank you for your support!
Becky & Kris