Lidia and Joaquin

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We are Lidia and Joaquin Avila, husband and wife. Joaquin was born in Mexico and I was born in Cuba. We are both artisans and work in hand-painted ceramics.

We had always wanted to start a project of our own, and began by importing ceramics to paint. The colors and the natural diversity of Costa Rica, our adopted country are a constant inspiration. The figurines we work with mostly depict animals and, in our designs, we use a palette of bright colors, which make result in very attractive images that are full of life.

"I believe each of us has a special gift for this. When I realized the work I was doing wasn't fulfilling, I began painting. I researched craft forms that were done totally by hand, and I realized I'd found my passion in painting. On the other hand, Joaquin grew up with a family member who painted. It always attracted him, but practice has helped us both improve and refine our skills, and every day we improve our techniques.

"We especially like creating images that are filled with color. We use traditional techniques. It can be challenging to create new motifs and designs on every new piece of ceramic, and to find different and attractive figurines to give them our personal touch.

"We are creative and perseverant people with many dreams and goals in mind, and we make a great team. Together, we've overcome different difficulties and also have experienced wonderful moments with our family. Working together has helped strengthen our relationship.

"Every day brings a new challenge but, together, I know that nothing is impossible. We seek a better future for our family, and what better way to do that than with an art we are both passionate about that has given us so much?"

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NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.

Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.

Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.

The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.

United States shipping only. Expedited shipping is unavailable. Allow for 1-2 days extra processing time. This product may ship separately from other products in your order and may have longer than normal shipping timelines as it will ship directly from its country of origin.

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