A world of art from Novica

I have had a subscription to National Geographic magazine since high school.

When I was first learning to use a camera, back in the dark ages of film I held my old manual Olympus camera and fantasized about the Incan ruins, giraffes on safari and all of the hidden wonders of jungles.

Sadly, I have not become a National Geographic photographer, but my passion for other cultures still runs strong, as does my trusty subscription.

I was excited when I learned about Novica, a site associated with National Geographic that features artisans from around the world making jewelry, home decor, clothing and other items.

The best part of Novica is that you can ‘curate’ collections just like you would use Pinterest or other sites. You can go by mood, room decor, color, holiday or whatever else inspires you.

Novica will also be featuring contests based on the curated collections from their users.

From now until March 14, 2013, the best all-around curator chosen will receive an 8 -day trip to Peru with National Geographic Expeditions.

That would be a great way for me to see Maccu Picchu, the “City of the Incas” and a site of temples and amazing ruins of a lost civilization.

I currently have two curated collections- one with items that would look lovely in my home as we slowly fill it up with nurturing and wonderful items, and one full of accessories and jewelry I adore.

Another way to support the artisans is through microfinance- Novica offers a loan program through which  the artisans receive a loan with 0% interest to support the continuation of the traditions and crafts they work with.

With  Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and other holidays, religious or not coming up, a look at Novica could help you find something unique and special to give or wear.

And what did I pick?

After carefully considering several options that would go along with our beach themed living room, I decided I would instead give a more romantic gift that would mean time for my husband to focus on each other and reconnect.

Chess.

Which I will inevitably always lose at, but still enjoy.

The pieces are small and light and lovingly carved in shades of wood, the box is beautiful and lined with green felt to help protect my cute little horses (the knights are my favorite chess pieces).

I love knowing that, instead of hitting Target or buying some cheesy plastic set, I got to contribute to a single artisan’s lifestyle and support their craft. I also loved the hand-signed note I got from the carver in India.

Plus, a wood chess set looks beautiful on my white console in the living room.

Remember, now through March 14 you can register your own collections for a chance to travel to Peru with National Geographic! Other contests will follow.

You can also like Novica on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

They also have an Instagram and Youtube channel.

I’d love for you to take a look and comment on  something that took your fancy. Or, if you curate a collection, share your link here and I will be sure to leave a comment!

Disclaimer: I was given a credit to purchase an item on the Novica website. No other compensation was given. All opinions are my own.