Spinning Memories: The Magical Wool of Tlaquilpa
The artisans of the Sierra de Zongolica, Veracruz, obtain wool to preserve memories
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Family legacy
Nancy Carvajal, a member of the third generation of textile artisans in Tlaquilpa, passionately supports the roots and customs that nourish the richness of the forests and mountains of Veracruz.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Spun stories
With indigenous materials and ancestral techniques, Nancy Carvajal and her mother Matilde García Tentzohua, helped by their beloved sheep, weave stories that vibrate in every strand of wool.
Sierra Zongolica in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Origin in the countryside
Every beginning has its charm and, for Tlaquilpa, it is the unparalleled sheep whose wool plays a vital role in the community.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Weaving of traditions
For generations, wool extraction techniques have been handed down with deep respect.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Woven heart
By taking care of the sheep and extracting their wool, the designs that are the soul of Tlaquilpa are revealed.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Each fabric is a reflection of its rich history and landscapes.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Spun magic
Spinning with the malacate (spindle), a pre-Columbian art, transforms wool into threads by orienting the fibers and twisting the tool in a dance of the hands.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Three tones, a thousand stories
Traditionally, in Tlaquilpa, three types of pieces were created that reflected the natural colors of the sheep and were intended for community use.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
The challenge of the wool
Although Nancy Carvajal and her mother, Matilde García Tentzohua, are recognized today, the road was difficult. Usually underrated, wool is a testament to the effort and artistry found in each garment.
Fabrics from the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Revalued tradition
It was because of the tenacity of people like Matilde and her family that wool resurfaced with value in society, appreciated as an emblem of Tlaquilpa's talent and artisanal tradition.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Custodians of a centuries-old tradition
For Tlaquilpa, wool goes beyond sustenance; it's a living legacy that Nancy fervently defends.
Sierra Zongolica in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
Artisanal reflections
Tlaquilpa reflects how artisan hands draw stories of the environment and community spirit.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaMinistry of Culture of the Government of Mexico
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