Handmade Indonesian products in Nationalestraat: “We want to ensure collaborations between Antwerp companies and local artisans” (Antwerp)

Maryna sells Indonesian handmade products in her pop-up. Through direct collaborations and sponsors, she ensures that local artisans receive a fair price. She expanded their network and also started an online store.

In the Mailivings pop-up shop at Nationalestraat 26, Maryna Mai collects handmade Indonesian objects for the third time. Maryna really wants to highlight her country’s products, which are made with respect for nature.

“Indonesia is teeming with islands, so we have a huge amount of shells. Ideal for making plates. The coffee tables are made from fossils that we removed from the ground. And all wooden furniture and tableware is made of thick wood that is resistant to all weather conditions, which is necessary in a country like Belgium. There is also a village that only makes these wicker handbags.”

Handbags and chairs made from recycled plastic can also be found in the store. “We never want to build up a large stock. We prefer to produce on demand so as not to have stock surpluses.”

Sponsors

Maryna also investigates what appeals to Europeans and tries to combine that. “We are also trying to develop an online store because we now always have to rely on temporary stores. Many makers live in small villages, where only a few can read. I also teach them about the marketing side and bring them into contact with technology.”

Bank of Indonesia Representative Central of Java sponsors the export of the products, allowing more to go directly to the producers.

“We really want to set up collaborations between Antwerp companies and local makers from Indonesia. Because we would work without an intermediary, everyone would get the most out of it. It is a reasonable price for the Antwerp native to build a collection. And what we are already doing with the pop-ups is that all proceeds go entirely to makers.”

Indonesian Ambassador Mr. Andri Hadi attended the store opening on Friday, April 26. The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for two months until June 26.