Abstract
Alternative trade organizations (ATOs) adhere to a set of socially responsible business practices fostering empowerment and improved quality of life for their workers. The researchers explored the ATO claim by asking, How has artisan work with Market Place: Handwork of India affected the capabilities and well-being of women textile artisans in India? A second question addressed women's household responsibilities in relation to work expectations. Photoelicitation interviews were conducted with 31 artisans who were asked to take photographs depicting “who you are, your work, your family, and the neighborhood where you live.” Charting of the women's daily activities into household responsibilities, cooking, and artisan work revealed a nonlinear nature to women's days. The interviews offered insights about newfound capabilities, which contributed to individual and household well-being in the form of more attractive living spaces, better schooling, interpersonal support, improved health, and conceptualizing a life of choices and duties.
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