TRADITIONAL ARTS AND
​ETHNOLOGY CENTRE
Traditional arts and ethnology centre (TAEC) promotes voices of ethnic minority women, men and communities through their exhibitions and educational activities. It serves as a regional leader in cultural heritage management and community development. 

​Their vision includes:
  • Promoting pride and appreciation for the cultures and knowledge of Laos’ diverse peoples,
  • Supporting ethnic communities to safeguard their cultural heritage,
  • Promoting their sustainable livelihood development.
You can shop TAEC's products at online here

The Story  

Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre was founded in 2006 by Thongkhoun Soutthivilay and Tara Gujadhur in Laos. TAEC has contributed to the appreciation and transmission of Laos’ ethnic cultural heritage and livelihoods based on traditional skills. 

TAEC serves as a museum featuring informative insights into Laos' beautiful ethnic cultures. It also operates several fair-trade handicrafts stores, directly linked with artisan communities across Laos. Additionally, TAEC conducts school outreach activities, craft workshops, lectures, research, and a non-profit foundation in the USA. 

The Impact

Overwhelming majority of handicraft producers in the TAEC's programme are ethnic minority women, who spend their income on their family’s food, health, and education needs. Some of these families’ kids have gone to college. Handicrafts from over 600 artisans in 35 villages across Laos, with half of their staff being ethnic minorities, and/or women are sold in TAEC.

50% of each sale from the Museum Shop and TAEC Boutique goes directly back to their handicraft producers and their families.