Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
-
What is a Harmonized System Code (HS Code) and why it matters to an Artisan?
Table of Contents Introduction Harmonized System Code, or HS Code (sometimes called Commodity Code or Tariff Number), is a globally recognized alphanumeric code assigned to products. This code systematically categorizes goods for international trade, facilitating smooth commerce between countries. For artisans, understanding the HS Code is crucial. It simplifies the complex world of international trade…
-
What is the significance of Web3 technology in the handicraft sector?
Introduction Web3 technology emerges as a beacon of transformative possibilities within the handicraft sector, breaking free from the long-standing tether to traditional marketplaces facilitated by Web2 technology. Beneath the surface of creativity lies a complex ecosystem grappling with challenges that stifle the growth and sustainability of artisans. Centralized control, exorbitant fees, and transaction opacity have…
-
Sell on an Online Marketplace or Personal Website? The Artisan’s Dilemma
Introduction Marketplace vs Personal Website – this remains a dilemma faced by countless artisans seeking to adopt the transformative power of bringing unique handmade products to a global audience. My countless interactions with talented artisans have unveiled the complexities surrounding this choice and prompted the realization that the path an artisan chooses can significantly impact…
-
Can decentralization foster governance, fairness and inclusion in the creative sector?
Welcome to the Artisan’s Revolution! As the founder of the world’s first artisanal marketplace leveraging the power of decentralization, I embarked on a quest to redefine the norms of governance, fairness, and inclusion. While skeptics may dismiss these as buzzwords, my journey delves into the heart of decentralization, where possibilities and challenges collide. On paper,…
-
Our 2024 Handpicked Artisanal Gift Ideas for Loved Ones
Table of Contents Introduction Like many, I grapple with finding unique gift ideas for friends. This year, Michelle (my Co-founder) and I adopted a strategic approach, intertwining our quest for exceptional artisans across Ontario, Canada, with mindful gift shopping for our loved ones. Embarking on my artisanal journey throughout 2023, I, as a founder and…
-
Ultimate Guide for Fine Artists to boost revenue through Digital Prints
Introduction Welcome to the Ultimate Guide for Fine Artists seeking to elevate their revenue through the dynamic world of digital prints! As the founder of an artisanal marketplace, my journey has led me to intimately engage with numerous talented individuals within the fine arts realm. These interactions have unveiled a poignant narrative of struggles, primarily…
-
Understanding GST/HST Requirements for Artisans: A Guide for Small Business Owners
Table of Contents Introduction: Navigating GST/HST for Artisans Embarking on your artisanal journey, the creative path converges with the practical realm of taxes, where the acronyms GST/HST (Goods and Services Tax and Harmonized Sales Tax, respectively) take center stage. Far from mere bureaucratic jargon, these two critical elements intricately shape the landscape of your business.…
-
Co-operatives: A beacon of hope for the African Handicraft Sector?
Table of Contents Introduction Embarking on this exploration of co-operatives (also known as co-ops) in African handicrafts feels like unravelling a profound tapestry. As a founder deeply entrenched in the world of crafts, my fascination with co-operatives is more than professional – it’s personal. Witnessing the resilience of small business owners in the handicraft space…
-
Elevate Your Craft: 5 Compelling Reasons Artisans Should Embrace Online Selling in 2024
Online selling, particularly on marketplaces, has become a pivotal question in my role as the founder of the AFOMA Marketplace and an advocate of equitable income for artisans. I ponder why artisans in Nigeria and even Canada – a place I call home – do not or are reluctant to harness the transformative potential offered…
-
Heartfelt Gestures: The Enduring Appeal of Handmade Greeting Cards
There is something extraordinary about receiving handmade cards in a world filled with digital communication. Picture a moment frozen in time, where a carefully crafted paper captures emotions. I remember the first time I got a gifted handmade card – a beautiful piece of art that spoke volumes beyond the words written inside. This exploration…
Got any book recommendations?