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About the ArtisansThe Women of Chumanzana
The Women of Chumanzana live on a hillside about one half hour's walking distance from the Pan American Highway. This group of 17 weave fabric typical of the Chichicastenango area using backstrap looms. Their woven products provide much needed income because their husbands' earnings from farming isn't enough to support their families.
When first organizing the group, the Women of Chumanzana formed a directiva (a managing council) to direct the group. This proved challenging at first because some of the weavers did not trust the council. Some feared that their leaders were not truthful or kept money for themselves.
To overcome this problem, Mission: Guatemala met with the group every three months to talk about prices and new product ideas. Notes were taken so that their discussions were kept on record and can be referred to when questions arise. At first, only a few were vocal during these meetings; but eventually, the entire group participated freely, and compromises were made. Through this process, the Chumanzana women saw that the directiva could be trusted.
Through working with Mission: Guatemala, the women learned to adapt their fabric colors and styles so that they are more marketable in the U.S. This included changing to colorfast thread. The weavers have been able to successfully sell their fabric throws, shawls, tablecloths, and wall hangings, and sew their fabric into bags, jackets; but still maintain the integrity of the indigenous art of weaving.
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ABOUT THE ARTISANS
BUY PRODUCTS FROM
Beautiful Chi Chi Wall Hanging handwoven by the Women of Chumanzana. Can also be used as a table runner!
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Mission: Guatemala · PO Box 906, Pacifica, CA 94044 · Phone: 650.738.9551 · Email: info@mission-guatemala.org ©2004-2006 Kateri Tekakwitha Fund. Site developed by egrate |
