Beach chairs for R$ 1,200: how a teacher earns up to R$ 200,000 a year with a popular item
Kênia Lyra, an artist from Espírito Santo, transforms common beach chairs into artistic pieces, earning substantial income through her handcrafted designs.
Kênia Lyra, an artist from Espírito Santo, Brazil, has redefined the typical beach chair into a work of art and decor, generating impressive financial returns. By utilizing nautical cord—a material commonly used in boats—and manual techniques she learned in her childhood, Kênia crafts artisanal beach chairs that reflect the essence of the sea and her personal identity. Each chair is intricately woven by hand, echoing a weaving process and resulting in vibrant patterns that connect to coastal landscapes.
Having a deep relationship with the sea, Kênia emphasizes that her upbringing significantly influenced her artistic expression. Growing up in a family that valued manual craftsmanship, she was immersed in various traditional skills, including fishing nets, woodworking, crochet, embroidery, and sewing. These early experiences serve as inspiration for her work today, leading her to create pieces that are more than just functional items—they're reflections of memory, culture, and personal identity.
With her unique artistic approach, Kênia has found considerable commercial success, earning up to R$ 200,000 a year from selling her beach chairs, priced at R$ 1,200 each. This remarkable achievement showcases not only her talent but also the potential for art to merge with commerce, particularly in regions where cultural heritage shapes everyday objects. Her story exemplifies how local craftsmanship can gain recognition and profitability in today's market while maintaining cultural significance and personal connection.