From Basha’s early days, I heard about the International Folk Art Market (IFAM), the world’s largest and most prestigious event of its kind, celebrating the work of master folk artists from around the globe. Held annually in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the market features handmade goods that reflect deep cultural traditions, artistry, and heritage.
Since our focus has been on wholesale, I never considered participating until 2024, when someone suggested it to me. I filled out the application and was thrilled to be one of 142 artists selected from over 700 applicants.
We had no idea how many products we would need, so the artisans stitched away, and we sent six large boxes well ahead of time to ensure nothing could go wrong. All the beautiful blankets, cushion covers, and scarves were there waiting well before the market opened on July 10th!
We arrived in Santa Fe on July 6th for orientation and information sessions for all new artisans. On Tuesday, we attended training on topics such as photography, merchandising, selling wholesale products internationally, and combining heritage with sustainable practices. On Wednesday, it was time to set up! That evening, there was a train ride and a parade where thousands cheered for all the artisans by their respective cultural groups. Our small team of three from Bangladesh felt honored to carry the Bangladesh flag, which had not been present at the market for many years. We certainly felt like celebrities! Check out these Instagram highlights from IFAM to see some of the moments for yourself!
Appreciating handmade products means valuing all the work that goes into creating each item. We often compete against mass-produced, bargain products, or even handmade goods priced so low that it’s clear the artisan wasn’t properly compensated for their work. Being in an environment where everyone appreciates the effort behind handmade products, and wants to ensure artisans are honored and paid fairly, was exciting. Shoppers enjoyed hearing the stories behind the products—about the artisans, the techniques they use, and how items are made from recycled and repurposed materials. Representing Bangladesh and the kantha traditions, which date back more than five centuries, was a tremendous honor.
Ideally, an artisan would have attended with me, but visa and financial restrictions made that impossible. I wish all Basha artisans could experience such a celebration and appreciation of their work. They see this every day through each order and every visitor or social media share, but the energy of so many people in one place was thrilling to be a part of. I know they are proud of every product that goes into every home.
In this fast-paced, bargain-hunting world, it is worth pausing to recognize the amazing things being created by hands around the globe. One aspect of globalization is that the same mass-produced products can be found almost everywhere you go. But how wonderful it is that we can also learn about each other’s handmade traditions and techniques, purchasing products that are unique and possess an essence that cannot come from mass production. Being in such a rich and vibrant environment, where handmade heritage is valued, cherished, and invested in, was an amazing experience. Even though we can’t fly all the Basha artisans to see it for themselves, I know they are thrilled and proud to have their products cherished by so many new appreciative owners.
View a video overview on Instagram here: Basha at IFAM 2025