i wonder how much of culture and history play a role in why we don't focus on crafts, despite this being an extremely hand crafty culture. maybe that's why... being a hand crafter is matter of surviving in some places in brazil. weaving baskets is not a form of hobby-taken-seriously-artistry, but a way of making money. maybe it's such a basic necessity that it tends to larger masses. there's a different quality to it. but that might be why the appeal to the tourists is so big. handmade things in brazil are key. but in a different light. definitely interesting culturally...
