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The
harvest of vegetable fibres is the third most important source
of revenue from the tropical forest, after the hardwoods.
Many species are used in particular those called Nibi (Heteropsis
flexuosa) and Kufa (Clusia grandiflora and Clusia palmicida).
The aerial roots of these semi-epiphyte plants are cut by the
Amerindians once the plants are fully grown. Kufa, the more
rigid, is used to construct the skeleton of the piece of furniture.
Nibi, which is more flexible, is used to weave baskets ("warishis")
and other local handicrafts.
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One
of the largest exporters of woven handicrafts, Liana Cane
Interiors, has agreed to buy only the mature roots in order
to protect this natural resource. The main outlet for these
crafts, apart from the local market, is in the West Indies;
Tobaggo, Trinidad, Barbados...
An interesting experiment
selling these products via the Internet, initiated by the
State Telephone Company, has enabled the women of the Wapisiana
and Macusi tribes to increase the possibilities of getting
the best price for their work. |
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The Office for
Development and Craft was created in order to find
the most lucrative export markets.
Craftsmanship using vegetable fibres does not produce only
furniture and baskets. Animals, such as tortoises and alligators
are also made and have focused attention on the possible development
of this kind of activity.
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Making a chair using vegetable
fibres.
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French
