Gift Focus inc Attire Accessories - September/October 2020

79 COMPANY PROFILE Ethical gifts Tilnar Art has taken positive steps to adapt and prosper in the current difficult trading environment. Here editor Louise Prance finds out about the company’s journey to become a leading fair trade giftware company When did you start up the company and why? Tilnar Art was formed in 2005 by Tom Hawes. Tom gave up a career as a successful London Solicitor to form Tilnar Art as he wanted to help many of the artists he had met on his various trips to Zimbabwe. Tilnar stands for ‘This Is Life Not A Rehearsal’ and Tom passionately believes you should, where possible, work in areas that you are passionate about and enjoy. How has the company developed over the years? From humble beginnings Tilnar Art has gone from strength to strength, adding the Besmo & MO-HOme brands to its I 