Who We Are
Stoneage Arts showcases artisan handmade items from around the world, with a focus on preserving local handicraft traditions and supporting artisans. The company was founded in 1987 and is based in Kissimmee, Florida, USA. It partners with artisans to create distinct handcrafted art and home décor, regularly visiting international villages seeking artisans with unique styles, then working with them to develop eco-friendly products using materials that are sustainable and replenishable.
Our journey began in 1987
A Customer was relentless in pursuing us: “where are you guys? I need more of the product.” We thought, “Oh! Really.” Finally, we decided to take the customer request seriously. You see, several years earlier, with a very talented cousin, Tinu, we had imported African products, and after many months of trying to sell to other retail outlets with limited success, this Customer on the first call agreed to see us and bought our entire stock—what an experience!—that story for another day!
Raj and Bhanu were born and raised in Kenya and they, living in London at the time, decided to move to the US to grow the business. Babu looked after the day-to-day African operations. Phagoon, who graduated from the University of Florida, decided to join the company full-time in 1996. Ash, who is Raj’s brother, joined the company in 1993.
Handcrafted with Heart
Our passion for handcrafted art grew as we travelled from one African country to another and started to work directly with the artisans. Our current business model started to take root as we saw how talented the artists were in creating the amazing work, in most cases just using their hands and basic hand tools.
We always treated artisans and their families fairly, and even today, those artisans, their families, and the community work with us in developing and designing new products. Bhanu spearheads a lot of these developments and spends countless hours each year working with the artisans. Input from our customers also has been invaluable.
The company has continued to grow, and its global network of artisans now stretches across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Conscious Global Craft
Most items are produced from organic, sustainable, recycled or natural materials that are harvested legally and in an ecologically friendly way. For several years now, we have embraced the re-purpose of materials like bottle caps, wire, Aluminum cans, glass and rubber.
All items are produced with a consciousness towards the environment and the preservation and revival of the local handicraft traditions around the Globe. We together help to create income and a better life style for the Artisans, their families and their community. Thank you for keeping the Artisan Sprit alive.