It really is a small world after all. I ran into Diane Gaffney completely by chance in Indonesia and now I'm here in their home/shop in Bishop's Castle, England!
As Chairwoman of the Batik Guild, Diane has been an invaluable resource this year. She and her husband Jim travel the world (focusing on Indonesia, Thailand and Turkey) buying gorgeous handmade art and textiles to bring back to their shop, Textile Traders. In an unfair world, they try their best to maintain fairness and sustainability in every purchase - it is amazing really!
It is so weird to see Indonesian batiks and batik tools here in their new home on the other side of the world. They seem so different in this new environment - more exciting and exotic somehow.
Nia and Ismoyo's silk scarves are still the best! I still can't believe I was lucky enough to study with them in Yogyakarta. It all seems like a dream!
Sales are only part of the Gaffney's work. Through their travels and research, they constantly strive to learn about the culture and people who make these gorgeous textiles. By giving lectures and workshops on what they have seen and learned, they are able to spread a greater understanding and appreciation for these gorgeous fabrics.
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