Description
In Traditional Weavers of Guatemala, twenty artisans share their personal histories, hopes, and dreams along with the products of their hands and looms. The book is a story of tradition, innovation, and survival, embellished with the colors of a profound cultural heritage. Chandler and Cordon introduce a diverse range of fiber artists, including men and women and spanning generations, from thirty-three to eighty-nine. Many of the artists who, through necessity and creative expression, have evolved traditional weaving techniques and design. They explain subtle but significant regional differences in the use of patterns, colors, and styles. Photographer Joe Coca captures brilliantly the heart of his subjects and the beauty of their land. Through over 200 photographs, he tells a story of the physical beauty of Guatemala, of the diversity of a landscape that has shaped its people, of the Maya culture, and of the textiles themselves.
"When you read this book, you step into Guatemala as though you were being welcomed into the homes of weavers in every area of the country and, in their own languages, able to ask them about their textile techniques and life histories. Weavers will especially love the detailed information about textile techniques, but every reader will love this tour of Guatemala and introduction to its people."
Madelyn van der Hoogt, Editor Emerita, Handwoven magazine
About the Author
Besides teaching extensively through weaving guilds and schools, Deborah has been a weaving shop owner, a contributing editor to Handwoven magazine, a peace corps volunteer in Honduras, and an employee of Pueblo to People, a nonprofit organisation that imports and sells handcrafted goods from Central and South America. Deborah is a founding member of Weave a Real Peace (WARP), an organisation dedicated to building bridges between weavers in first and third world countries.
Reviews
As more and more people in the west are finding the beauty in handmade people are looking to elsewhere in the world to find inspiration. The book follows the stories of twenty artisans. It's a story of tradition, innovation, and survival, embellished with the colors of a profound cultural heritage. The book spans generations and brings together men and women to show what they create as well as why. You find out the artisans stories , personal histories, hopes, and dreams along with the products of their hands and looms. You will be amazed at how their history brings together and amazing mix of colour and texture. This book is interesting, brilliant to read
and a real inspiration. If you've ever wanted to weave or you already weave and want some new inspiration then you will love this book. There is so much being lost as we spend less time making things. This book redresses the issue and makes sure the the designs are recorded for history. The stories of the artisans are just as much of the story as the designs. Their lives have molded the way they weave and what beautiful pieces of fabric they create for generations to come. I feel honoured that the people have opened up their homes and lives to show us and share with us the beauty of what they create.
When you read this book, you step into Guatemala as though you were being welcomed into the homes of weavers in every area of the country and, in their own languages, able to ask them about their textile techniques and life histories. Their love of beauty and color as well as strength of character glow in every magnificent photo and personal story. Weavers will especially love the detailed information about textile techniques, but every reader will love this tour of Guatemala and introduction to its people.
* Handwoven Magazine *Book Information
ISBN 9780983886075
Author Deborah Chandler
Format Paperback
Page Count 152
Imprint Schiffer Craft
Publisher Schiffer Publishing Ltd
Weight(grams) 704g