CLARA: OAXACA WOOL WEAVING
TEXTILE WEAVING IN TEOTITLAN DEL VALLE HAS ANCIENT, ZAPOTEC ROOTS
Teotitlan del Valle - a serene town located outside of bustling Oaxaca city - is known for its long history of textile weaving.
Weaving in this village has been dated back to 500 BCE. At that time, back-strap looms and plant-based fibers were utilized, and the textiles were primarily made for use as clothing. Centuries later, the Spanish introduced sheep and larger looms powered by foot pedals. The new tools, materials and methods allowed for larger scale items to be woven, such as rugs and tapestries.
Today, Teotitlan del Valle is renowned for its woven rugs and pillow covers which use wool fibers, natural dyes from plants & insects, and feature indigenous Zapotec motifs and designs.
CLARA IS THE YOUNGEST MEMBER OF A MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAMILY OF WEAVERS
Clara was taught to weave by her parents and grandparents, who were taught by their elders before them. Today, she and her sisters run the workshop in the back of their home.
The workshop is adjacent to a large, airy courtyard where chickens, ducks, one large turkey and several lazy dogs roam about as Clara and her family use the large pedal looms to weave.
Clara showed us how many of the fibers are dyed using plants and dried insects directly from the courtyard. The family also utilizes ash, and ground coffee for darker dyes.
TRADITIONAL METHODS, CONTEMPORARY DESIGN
Our line of handwoven wool rugs and pillow covers are designed in-house, and produced in collaboration with Clara and her workshop. The result is a beautiful blend of traditional craftsmanship combined with contemporary design.
