Timeless Fabrics: Cuetzalan's Living Arts
Cuetzalan del Progreso, Puebla: An exploration of the rebirth of an embroidered past
Parroquia de San Francisco de Asis en Cuetzalan, Puebla (2021) by Dirección General de Culturas Populares, Indígenas y UrbanasSecretaría de Cultura
A solidary group
From the top of the Cuetzalan mountains, ancient craftsmanship resurfaces thanks to the "Masehual Cihuamej" collective, a group of 100 women who form a bridge between tradition and the present day.
Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Space for ideas and fabrics
The Hotel Taselotzin is presented not only as an accommodation, but as a sanctuary of ancestral art, where the traditional weaving techniques of Cuetzalan are exhibited and revived.
Embroidery from the Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Renaissance
This cultural refuge has been fundamental for artisans to revalue and rejuvenate artisanal techniques that were at risk of fading.
Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Transmitting heritage
In the group lies their strength. The older artisans teach the younger ones, which generates an invaluable learning dynamic.
Embroidery from the Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Authentic heart
In the heart of the community dwells the art of the waist loom and jonote weaving. These deeply rooted traditions reflect the true essence and cultural heritage of Cuetzalan.
Hotel Taselotzin, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
A wonderful tree
The jonote is a tree up to 50 feet high that keeps a secret among its branches.
Embroidery from the Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Braids of the earth
The master craftswomen of Cuetzalan extract the bark of the jonote and submerge it for 25 days to soften it and transform it into intricate woven pieces.
Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
A loom of ancient traditions
In Cuetzalan, the waist loom is fitted to the body of the weaver and secured to a fixed point. Equipped with wooden poles and the tzotzopaztli, a wooden machete, the artisans create beautiful woven pieces.
Embroidery from the Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Treasured pieces
Before starting, they carry out an incense ritual and pay homage to the wood. Although the loom seems simple, its charm lies in the intricate interweaving of colors and textures.
Embroidery from the Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
A sense of togetherness
These techniques, together with the region's sense of community, have forged a deep sense of belonging and cohesion among artisans.
Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Artisans united by their heritage
The essence of the jonote tree and the mastery of the waist loom are intertwined. The Nahua artisans, by honoring traditions and wood, have created more than just pieces: they have woven a strong community, rich in history and culture.
Masehual Cihuamej Collective, in Cuetzalan, Puebla, Mexico. (2023-08-24) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
