Artesanías

It began with curiosity and opportunity. Wanting to learn more about my country and its traditions through craft, I was invited to a residency on the island of Margarita with ArtesanoGroup, a foundation supporting Venezuelan artisans. The residency was based in the town of El Cercado, where the ancient tradition of el barro (clay work) has been carried on by generations of women since before the Spaniards arrived in the Americas. This practice, centered on utilitarian objects, is now at risk of disappearing due to the country’s current conditions.

Working with the local clay involves a long sequence of steps: gathering stones in el cerro la Cruz, collecting mud from a nearby river, grinding and mixing different-colored rocks with water and earth, and letting the mixture rest until it becomes workable clay. From there, traditions guide the shaping, and finally the ritual of the wood fire completes the process to bring all the pieces to life.

The experience of working there is not only technical but profoundly human and spiritual. I worked side by side with artisans, learning their methods, rhythms, and histories. I also collaborated and continue to do with weavers making baskets and hammocks, practices deeply rooted in the region and also carried by women.