Porfirio Gutierrez (weaver)
Porfirio Gutierrez is a Mexican artisan and advocate specializing in the weaving traditions of Teotitlán del Valle, Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca. He comes from a long line of traditional Zapotec peoples, Zapotec weavers, and the family still is dedicated to this art. Although Gutierrez grew up with the craft and worked looms starting at age 12; at age 18, he went to work in the United States, staying for ten years. Upon returning to Oaxaca, he rediscovered his heritage and the importance of weaving and has since worked to create and promote the making of wool rugs using traditional materials and techniques. In particular he promotes the use of natural dyes, in which his sister Juana specializes. Gutierrez divides his time between Oaxaca and California, not only to sell his family's wares but also to speak and research about weaving and Zapotec culture. This has included a collaboration with the National Museum of the American Indian (Smithsonian Institution, Smithsonian). Backgroun ...
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Teotitlán Del Valle
Teotitlán del Valle is a small village and municipality located in the Tlacolula District in the east of the Valles Centrales Region, 31 km from the city of Oaxaca in the foothills of the Sierra Juárez mountains. It is part of the Tlacolula Valley district. It is known for its textiles, especially rugs, which are woven on hand-operated looms, from wool obtained from local sheep and dyed mainly with local, natural dyes. They combine historical Zapotec designs with contemporary designs such as reproductions of famous artists' work. Artists take commissions and participate in tours of family-owned workshops. The name Teotitlán comes from Nahuatl and means "land of the gods." Its Zapotec name is Xaguixe, which means "at the foot of the mountain." Established in 1465, it was one of the first villages founded by Zapotec peoples in this area and retains its Zapotec culture and language. History This village is considered to be one of the first that was founded by the Zapotecs a ...
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