Every so often, Psychology Evolution would like to present initiatives from around the globe that have captured our imagination. To coincide with our online launch, we are very proud to introduce Utsa, whose philanthropic approach to developing sustainablility in local communities particularly moved us during our recent travels to India. "In Sanskrit, ‘utsa’ means source. Creating durable products that are utilitarian and tactile, utsa's philosophy is pretty straight forward. Quirky and original, our products are manufactured by urban and rural communities in and around the India sub-continent. Focusing on the handmade, we try where we can to recycle as well as use natural materials and hand processes such as weaving, book binding, and embroidery. Supporting local artists and artisans by designing contemporary products means we can help sustain an industry of crafts people at the grassroots level. The handmade aspect is particularly important to utsa because it means a little bit of the soul and spirit of the maker is imparted into every piece. In everything utsa makes is an aspiration - that one day we will all reach that place of peace within ourselves for a greater good." Utsa offers a selection of handmade products for individual customers and retailers, and also works with architects, interior designers, and textile designers in producing home textile collections or specially commissioned pieces. Please feel free to contact us with your ideas and for further information on our existing range of handmade products - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Photograph of a village house in Santineketan, India If you would like to let us know about an initiative that has inspired you, please click here.