Between Two Worlds: The Story of Nancy Carvajal
The artisans of the Sierra de Zongolica, Veracruz, trace bridges between tradition and modernity
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Unbreakable roots
From the mountains of Tlaquilpa in Veracruz to the great metropolis of Mexico City, Nancy Carvajal always carries with her the unshakable spirit of her land and passion for her roots.
Sierra Zongolica in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Cultural contrasts
Between two worlds, Nancy Carvajal is molded with the energy of the city and the wisdom of Tlaquilpa, and she finds a balance in her dual identity.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Journeying by land and tradition
Nancy Carvajal compares her life to a chayote sprout. Despite the complexity of the economic activity in Tlaquilpa, she takes the initiative and brings the art of her community to the city, thus turning obstacles into opportunities.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Resurgent traditions
In Mexico City, Nancy Carvajal, as a domestic worker, turned every home into a showcase for Tlaquilpa. By selling her craft, she wove a bridge between her urban life and the traditions of her homeland.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Intertwined stories
By introducing the cochineal and its vibrant red color from the valley of Mexico in Tlaquilpa, Nancy Carvajal intertwines stories and lives.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Unity and resilience
Her journey, which is a dance between tradition and modernity, symbolizes personal and community resilience.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Fabrics in transition
In her journey towards innovation, Nancy Carvajal has rescued old techniques to make smaller pieces without losing their essence. These reduced garments are more attractive to the market and allow for larger scale production.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Traditions in transformation
Although the competition among artisans is growing, Nancy Carvajal stands out at fairs, and continues to create community connections and to strengthen the culture of Tlaquilpa.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
The digitization of traditions
The COVID-19 pandemic and its challenges prompted Nancy Carvajal to enter the digital world to promote and sell her family's art.
Artisan of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Modern connections
Through the "Nancy Carvajal," "Tekimalakatl," and WhatsApp digital platforms, Nancy connects Tlaquilpa with a constantly changing world, and adapts its craftsmanship to the modern market.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
Weaver of cultures
Nancy Carvajal, a bridge between Tlaquilpa and Mexico City, shows us how resilience and adaptation can give rise to a cultural renaissance.
Works of the Tekimalaktl Collective, in Tlaquilpa, Veracruz, Mexico. (2023-08-27) by Manuel de Jesús Pérez GarcíaSecretaría de Cultura
