Our Story: Preserving Heritage, Empowering Communities
At Home of Indigenous Arts Belize Limited (HIABL), we believe that every authentic craft tells a story. Founded in 2023 as a non-governmental organization, our mission is to create a nurturing “home” for Belize’s indigenous artisans. We work with talented men, women, and youth from eight communities across the Toledo District, providing them with the resources, training, and a supportive community they need to thrive.
Our artisans, many of whom are single mothers, unemployed individuals, youths at risk, and subsistence farmers, face unique challenges. They rely on traditional skills and natural resources, which are increasingly impacted by climate change. We’re dedicated to helping them overcome these obstacles by building their entrepreneurial skills, fostering innovation, and strengthening their resilience. We offer a range of programs, including financial literacy training, product development workshops, and climate-resilient initiatives like our replanting program.
The Indigenous Art Gallery and Museum: Where Culture Comes to Life
To further our mission, we’ve launched our social business arm, the Indigenous Art Gallery and Museum. This space isn’t just a shop—it’s a living showcase of Belize’s rich cultural heritage. When you visit, you’ll discover a stunning collection of authentic Belizean crafts, including:
Handwoven Textiles: From intricate Mopan Maya embroidery to traditional “cuxtal” bags that tell stories of family and culture.
Traditional Pottery: Featuring the rare and generations-old skills of a master potter from San Pedro Columbia Village.
Jippi Jappa and Bayal Basketry: A wide variety of functional and decorative pieces woven from natural materials.
Wood, Calabash, and Painted Products: Unique items that blend traditional craftsmanship with artistic expression.
Every purchase directly supports the livelihoods of our artisan members, helping them achieve economic empowerment and ensuring these invaluable skills are passed down to future generations.