Backstrap Loom Weaving and Natural Dyeing with Cecilia & Shun

Cecilia and Shun are master weavers specializing in the ancient Mayan crafts of backstrap weaving and natural dyeing. Cecilia began weaving at seven, learning how to weave by observing her mother, a matriarch of her family’s weaving tradition. Over the years, Cecilia has developed a vibrant weaving and natural dyeing practice reinterpreting traditional Mayan Tsotsil weaving patterns alongside her husband, Shun, who helps with the technical aspects of the loom. Her intricate designs have been celebrated internationally across Canada, the US, France, Peru, Guatemala, and Mexico. 

Cecilia’s specialty is crafting intricate brocade patterns inspired by pre-Hispanic Tsotsil weaving patterns and techniques. She is also a natural dyeing expert, using local plants, roots, flowers, and bark to craft over 20 unique hues. Across her practice, Cecilia is fueled by a deep connection to her indigenous Mayan roots. She seeks to recuperate ancient motifs, preserving her culture’s thousand-year legacy of backstrap weaving and natural dyeing techniques that, in modern times, are in danger of being lost. At the same time, she innovates on tradition, creating works that reflect a more modern spirit. Using the loom as a mode of contemporary communication, Cecilia’s practice is political. Her mission is to help generate growth and development within her community and promote its Mayan heritage, encouraging others to engage with longstanding textile traditions.

Cecilia is an inspiring mentor who nurtures a community-centered approach to weaving. Inspired by her mother, she believes textiles have the power to open doors, unite people, and link individuals sharing the joy of making and weaving threads. She is excited to share her culture, joy, and the magic of textiles with you.