Sea shells a source of imcome for some families in Pochomil

Since childhood, Veronica Valverde Mojica, a denizen of Pochomil, lives off the collection of sea shells. Her life revolves around the sea, the sand and shore of Pochomil. Her days are quite the same every day as she seeks to earn her every day bread.

Sea shells are the only source of income for this family of 9 members. Everybody gets involved in the job: from the youngest to the oldest. In a good day they can make up to $60 dollars, in a bad day only $5.

Hotel Vistamar has given this family the opportunity to display their handicrafts at the hotel; promoting art and supporting local artisans, and motivating others to group up and learn from this family.

“It is motivating for us that hotel Vistamar recognizes our work, supports us and contributes to making our handicrafts known outside Pochomil”, says  Valverde.

The process this family follows to create a piece is simple: they collect, clean, flame, carve the figure and paint it. It´s an art; with their skillfull hands they shape a chest, a collar or an ornament.