While it may not fit with most peoples' perceptions of a non-profit NGO, marketing is an integral part of The Mirror Art Group's work and vital to their continued existence and growth. Sale of handicrafts both at the commune shop and on-line at ebannok.com provides the villagers with real, dignified work rather than charity and helps to fund children's activities. Marketing the local handicrafts through the internet also raises awareness, both in Thailand and internationally, of hilltribes and the efforts of The Mirror Art Group.
The website, which has been running for 6 months, sells a variety of products, from traditional and modern hilltribe shirts to clay whistles, and even Jingnongs (traditional Akha instrument, similar to a Jew's harp). Although still in its early stages, an English version of the web site is under construction, and will soon be reaching a much larger audience.
The companion to the virtual shop at ebannok.com is the actual shop located on the commune site. It has been running for a year and never fails to delight visitors including such diverse groups as World Bank and International Labor Organization representatives, student parties from local universities, volunteers and representatives from other NGOs. The products have proved so popular that volunteer teachers often take the products to other parts of Thailand to sell, including Khao San Road in Bangkok. Feel free to stop by, in person, at our shop in Chiang Rai or virtually at ebannok.com.
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