Damian Flores Vargas

Bolivia

Unay Pallay Asociacion de Tejedoras Indigenas de Candelaria

Weaving with Handspun Wool

The intricate patterns and styles found in the weavings of the Tarabuco Indians of the High Andes Region of Bolivia are proud markers of Tarabuco identity, and still components of daily attire and use in the local villages. Figurative designs of people, animals, altars and constellations recount local legends and myths. The weavings of the men of the Tarabuco culture are distinct from those of the women, with the men’s weavings having a variety of solid colors, and more figurative, rather than geometric, designs. 

Damian Flores Vargas is a master weaver and founding member of Unay Pallay, the local weaver’s cooperative from the village of Candelaria. He works with both upright and pedal looms to transform the locally produced, spun and dyed wool into figurative weavings and clothing. The wall hangings, known as aqsus, are adaptations of a traditional decorative apron-style garment still worm by the women of the area.