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CNN Live Sunday

Internet Can 'Pay Off' For Artisans in Guatemala

Aired May 13, 2001 - 18:20   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
STEPHEN FRAZIER, CNN ANCHOR: In today's Solution Seekers report, CNN's Allison Tom shows now how the Internet is helping artisans in Guatemala show their work around the world without leaving home.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ALLISON TOM, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): These colorful textiles represent various aspects of Mayan culture and society. And now, with modern technology, indigenous artists and craftsmen are weaving their works onto the Web.

PEDRO RAX, ARTIST (through translator): The Webpage is called artemaya.com, and through it, we are selling our crafts. Thanks to technology, people can find out more about our textiles and our town.

TOM: The town of San Pedro La Laguna is a community in western Guatemala on the shores of Lake Atitlan. Its economy relies heavily on the sale of hand-crafted products. Artemaya.com sells not only fabrics, but also paintings. Artists say there are many benefits to technology. But, most importantly, it's leveling the playing field.

RAX (through translator): Before, the client used to price our work and that would kill us. We've now succeeded in getting paid for the true value of our art.

TOM: Analysts say the increase is significant.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE (through translator): By using technology, they have succeeded in selling their products for up to four times more.

TOM: Some say the combination of the Internet's global reach and people's business skills have contributed to the town's success.

CYRANO CABARRUS, ANALYST (through translator): Since we started exhibiting our work on the Internet, more people are becoming familiar with our handcrafts. People from all over the world are now able to view our wares.

TOM: Artists work closely with an entrepreneur in the United States who maintains and manages the Website. For the artists of San Pedro La Laguna, the Internet has become an important new tool, enabling them to share the richness and variety of their crafts with those both near and far away. Allison Tom, CNN.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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