Philosophy
At Oryx and Fig we are inspired by the passion of talented artisans from far reaching corners of the globe. Our design collective is about bringing various cultures together, highlighting the oneness we all share through the simple aspects of our daily lives.
Our world is so vast, so diverse, yet as humans we all interact with our environment and use our inherent talents and ingenuity to thrive. Communities from every corner of the earth use their local resources to create unique goods that enable their livelihood. Some make vessels with clay found in their local rivers, others construct furniture from native palms or make soap from the olive trees that are abundant in their region. At Oryx and Fig, we seek to highlight these makers. By offering high-quality handmade goods from artisans near and far, we support their craft and livelihood and in doing so bring cultures together and build a global community. We work with several Fair Trade organizations to ensure that the products we offer are ethically sourced and actually make a difference in the lives of others in need.
Often the artistry found in our periphery can make a big difference in our lives. Bringing another culture into our homes and personal space can inspire a new outlook on life, provide a welcome escape or offer us a new ritual that adds fulfillment. We believe home can showcase all we love and admire about the world and its beautiful people, combining cultures in a harmonious way. The artisans and entrepreneurs we work with at Oryx and Fig bring intention to our space, our homes, and add value to our lives.
Social Impact
It is not only our goal to bring you beautiful, handcrafted items from around the world but to nourish a global community. To do so, we not only believe in providing fair wages to artisans for the goods they craft but to support healthy and safe working conditions and seek to improve the living standards, health, education, and the environment of our makers and their local communities. We can make quite a difference in the world simply with conscious and ethical purchases. By supporting fair trade, we help create social and economic opportunities for artisans in small communities around the globe. This not only sustains their economy and livelihood but preserves their culture and dignity.
Who we work with, Who we support
Women and men in every corner of the globe work tirelessly, many from their own homes, to offer these beautifully crafted goods. And some of our favorite collectives are those with an even greater purpose: to sustain an entire community, preserve cultural heritage, or pave the way for the future well-being of others. Here are a few that we take pride in supporting.
Sustainability
01. |
thoughtful, long lasting goods
Our planet does so much for us, and now it is time we start giving back. Part of conducting a sustainable business lies in the products we sell. At Oryx and Fig, we are proud to support artisans that use their environment wisely and with respect. Our high-quality, handmade goods are thoughtful products that support a better way of buying. Investing in long lasting items reduces our waste and helps to preserve and strengthen our planet. Plus, many of these handcrafted works of art become heirlooms that can be passed down through generations. They have a story to tell and their story keeps heritage and tradition alive.
02. |
recycled packaging material
We work to conduct not just an ethical business with regard to the products we sell but also the means in which they are packaged. All items are wrapped and shipped using recycled and quite often biodegradable or compostable material. From the Greenwrap (no bubblewrap used) and recycled boxes to the biodegradable cello tape and all the material in between, we try to do our part to aid a cleaner, less polluted planet.
03. |
sustainable content
At Oryx and Fig, we work with artisans and collectives that not only create thoughtful and beautiful items but utilize natural and sustainable resources in unique ways. Many of our products are handcrafted from the natural materials native to the area, such as palms and grasses, local woods, wool, linen, and cotton native to the artisan’s region. We also support artisans that create items from recycled or repurposed fabric. We support the planet just as the planet supports us.
Photograph by Elaine McKellips
04. |
responsible materials and natural dyes
Several of our artisans even use natural dyes in their handcrafted goods. They create items and even embellish them with materials that come from the earth and can be returned to the earth, such as locally harvested flora, mud, or even tree bark. The process is quite labor intensive, between harvesting, boiling, soaking, and cleaning but it not only produces an eco-friendly alternative to color, it looks simply beautiful (and of course, all natural). We like nothing more than to support such a responsible work ethic.