Language: English or Spanish

Embark on a captivating journey into the art of Mexican “Randa de unión” embroidery! A traditional craft deeply rooted in the culture of Xochistlahuaca, Mexico, which beautifully adorns the “huipil” garment’s chest, neck edges, sleeves, and seams, as well as bringing beauty to tortilla napkins.

Join us in celebrating the rich legacy of Amuzgo women in embroidery as you discover their captivating narratives and deep-rooted beliefs. Under the guidance of a skilled artisan, Gabina Valentín López, and translator/facilitator, Inês Queirós, you will learn the art of embroidering two pieces of cloth together using four types of stitches: “randa de 3 puntadas”, “randa de diente de iguana”, “randa de 5 puntadas”, and “randa de gusano”. You’ll create samples of each stitch in the workshop and receive a video tutorial for future reference. Take home your samples and unleash your creativity, using this versatile skill to beautifully finish garment seams or create stunning patchwork pieces.

By participating, you gain practical embroidery skills and contribute to preserving and reviving this exquisite craft, which faces significant challenges due to the prevalence of commercial fabrics and a shrinking market.

Join us in honouring the dedication of Amuzgo women to keeping the tradition of “Randa de unión” embroidery alive. Unleash the potential of this technique and explore its diverse applications with us. Let’s celebrate the rich heritage of this craft together!

Gabina Valentín López is an Amuzgo weaver from Xochistlahuaca, Guerrero, on the Costa Chica of México. From age nine, she started weaving and learning the traditional symbology of her indigenous community, side by side with her family elders. Forced to migrate to the urban areas of Mexico City, weaving became, for some years, a night activity to keep practising her knowledge and feel closer to her roots. With her passion and strength, Gabina dedicates her life to preserving and maintaining her textile culture. She travels around México to sell the work of the Amuzgo weavers, safeguarding their ability to gain independence as women while keeping their culture alive.

Inês Queirós is a Portuguese textile artist and researcher based in Amsterdam, devoted to safeguarding endangered textile cultures and the unique multicultural expressions of the ethnosphere. Through TuYo Foundation and her expertise in natural dyeing and weaving techniques, Inês motivates communities to revive ancestral textile practices while exploring new possibilities. She sees textiles as a tangible medium for storytelling, social engagement and a powerful tool for women’s emancipation. She will be the translator and facilitator of the workshops taught by Gabina Valentín López.