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gifts/kids/pets/home

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Kathryn Leide and Beth Robinson
Chiripa
636 S Park St
Madison, WI 53715

608.441.8808


www.ChiripaShop.com

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Product/Service

Chiripa has a diverse range of gifts and home decor for all budgets. We are proud to present to our customers what we believe are some of Mexico's finest crafts. These include hand-hammered copper vases, pots, and furniture; various styles of pottery; wool rugs, and the carved and painted creatures (alebrijes) from Oaxaca; punched tin stars and mirrors; baskets, bright table lines, jewelry, carved stone statuary, and more. Chiripa also carries books about Mexican décor and themes, greeting cards, coffee, and chocolate. Customers may also find crafts from other Latin American countries and the U.S.

Buying Local

Chiripa is a retailer enthusiastic about buying directly from artisans, many of whom make their livings and their crafts in Mexico. By purchasing personally from craftspeople, Chiripa brings its customers closer to those who make the beautiful – and often one-of-a-kind -- items we offer. We tell their stories and display their photos as we try to connect peoples and preserve craft traditions. Chiripa is interested in promoting a shared sense of beauty, tradition, and respect that unites the Americas and small local businesses, here and abroad.

History

Over the years Chiripa's owners repeatedly traveled to some of the smaller towns and villages in Mexico, and were amazed by the variety, quality and distinctiveness of the indigenous crafts. We enjoyed getting to know the artisans and we appreciated their extraordinary talents and work ethic. Wanting to emphasize the traditions and rich culture of the Americas and provide a new market for these hardworking artisans. Kathryn Leide and Beth Robinson opened Chiripa at 636 South Park Street in October 2006. We hope Chiripa reflects the care and respect we have for the artists and their traditions.