Those who know Donna Karan well will tell you that one of the key pillars at Urban Zen is the preservation of culture. Thus, this year’s Holiday Marketplace features a collaboration with the International Folk Art Market (IFAM) and its global artisans whose work the designer wanted to celebrate.

“I am so inspired by the artisans IFAM brings together from around the world,” Karan said. “I love every single one of them and appreciate the heart and soul that goes into making these one-of-a-kind objects. Keith and IFAM are connecting the dots with us as we build a soulful economy at Urban Zen.”

IFAM’s Creative Director Keith Recker pointed to the common values between the organization and Urban Zen.

“We are both deeply in love with human creativity and culture,” he said. “We see the same beauty in hand spun fibers and natural dyes. We hear the stories told in the symbols woven into baskets and carved into wood. We take the same joy in listening to artists from around the world talk about why and what they make. Our partnership, because it is formed around these shared values, [and] touches everyone involved.”

The 45 international artisans hail from 22 countries, including Colombia, India, Thailand, Madagascar and South Africa, each providing their unique take on accessories, home décor, textiles, clothing, and art. 

As Karan put it, “It’s never about the Me but the We…how we can create a conscious community, where philanthropy meets commerce.”

Talk about a true holiday spirit!

Marketplace is open to the public through December 29 at Urban Zen, 705 Greenwich St, NYC.