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Saipan’s master craftsman works with SBDC
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Posted on Jun 13 2005
In the Dec. 26, 2004 edition of the Saipan Tribune, Agnes Donato introduced the CNMI community to Sebastian Camacho and all the activities that keep him busy from dawn to dusk. Among the interesting activities that occupy his time is the carving of coconuts, shells and alike into highly unique necklaces, earrings and rings.
Judging by the reception and interest he received at the 2004 Festival of Pacific Arts in Palau and tourists crowding his booth on a regular basis during the Thursday evening Garapan Street Market, he decided to begin working with Eric Plinske at the NMC Small Business Development Center and make his hobby into a bona fide business.
As is the case with many other entrepreneurs the SBDC has assisted, Camacho channels an abundance of energy and creativity into his work but nurturing it into an organized and formal business entity is another story. Camacho commented he’s been advised to quickly secure a business license and tax identification number. The next step is to begin creating a realistic plan for the venture.
Camacho firmly believes he’s one of the few indigenous artists whose product is in demand. His immediate interest is to get his crafts into the retailers around Saipan that cater to tourists. The SBDC recommended that Camacho’s supply of crafts remain unique, high in quality, and consistently supplied to the retailers that are interested in carrying the product on a regular basis.
Toward that end Camacho will be working with the SBDC on developing a regular work schedule, pricing policy, distribution system and networking with retailers so they can view the unique advantage his crafts can add to their business and subsequently their bottom line.
Camacho plans to continue nurturing his artistic talents and tapping his creativity to produce even more exotic island works of art. If you’d like to view his collection or work with him to create a unique piece of your own, visit his booth on Thursday evenings at the Garapan Street Market or contact him at 322-0939. (PR)
