Papaya Arts opened its doors on December 08 2008, in the City of Dunkirk, NY.

As a fair trade business, I have been selling hand made creations from artisans all over the World. As you know, fair trade products are sourced directly from the artisan who creates a product made from ethically-sourced materials.

Many of my products I have sourced directly from the craftsman in Mexico, and some have even become good friends. Papaya Arts is also a Ten Thousand Villages Alliance partner. Ten thousand Villages is the largest Fair-Trade maker to market non-profit organization in the world.

Whether I source directly from the painters, glass-blowers, ceramicist, jewelers, dressmakers, etc., or through my affiliation with Ten Thousand Villagers or several other non profit organizations, I feel I have helped make life a little better for people by knowing that we have eliminated the middleman and the artisans have been paid a fair price (usually upfront so that they can purchase their materials)for their work. It has a naturally draw for people who care about the world and its resources, and especially knowing that their purchase did not contribute to the often unjust manner in which third-parties source their products. My customers especially enjoy learning about the meaning of the piece and the culture from which it originated.

Papaya Arts also carries unique handmade jewelry creations, most of them are one of a kind pieces that are handmade by the owner who has been silversmithing for over 20 years.

Eclectic home decor, clothing, accessories, wall decor and garden decor is also part of the inventory.

It has been a journey of learning, fun, god and tough times, amazingly including a pandemic. Papaya Arts has found a new home on St Simons Island GA. I look forward to meeting you!!!