Nilda Callanaupa
"Andean Weavers and Our Environment"
Tuesday, March 02, 2004, 11:30 AM
Nilda Callanaupa is a master Andean weaver and Director of The Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco, dedicated to preserving the textile heritage of the region. Nilda grew up in the high valley of Chinchero, an important Inca center not far from Machu Picchu. She is renewing interest in the rich past of textile design and weaving that supports cultural diversity and connection to place in the High Andes.
Nilda was recognized as a prodigy as a young child, and by the time she was 14 years old, she was giving weaving demonstrations at the Smithsonain and the American Museum of Natural History. From her traditional beginnings in the high Andes she blazed a non-traditional path, graduating with a university degree in tourism, and starting her own business.
Rather than abandon her roots and flee to Lima, she returned home and started a non-profit: The Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC), which includes a weaving cooperative, a school for young girls (who must come dressed in traditional costume to be considered), a museum and a gallery. CTTC also provides shelter for women in distress, insures that young girls connect with their elders, and helps native weavers control the marketing of their textiles rather than sell through mestizo middle-men. Nilda is a shining example of how indigenous people can fully engage with world markets and still remain steadfastly true to their roots.
A Message from Nilda:
Dear Friends,
When I was young, shepherding in the mountains, I never would have imagined that some day I would receive a degree from the University of Cusco, make trips to the United States and other countries, have friends from different parts of the world, and communicate long distances by fax, the internet or email. I never would have imagined that I could create a Center to help my community and other communities of weavers to continue our art.
That is why I invite you to discover my culture and family, our lives.
Saludos,
Nilda Callanaupa