Natural Dyeing & Weaving with Olga

Olga, a Guatemalan with German and Queqchí heritage, is a textile artist, natural dyeing expert, and cultural preservationist with nearly 40 years of experience working with Indigenous weavers in Guatemala. Her life’s work is dedicated to preserving traditional textile practices while evolving them for contemporary markets, leading her to collaborate across Guatemala, Peru, Mexico, Bolivia, and the Canary Islands. Olga’s woven pieces—crafted on traditional backstrap looms—have earned international acclaim. She is also the author of a book on sustainability that explores local plants and their dyeing properties.

At the core of Olga’s practice is her mastery of natural plant dyes and pigments, particularly indigo, and plants like bananas and tannins. She works closely with indigenous weavers, many of whom craft from their homes, using natural fibers like linen, hemp, cotton, and jute. Olga oversees every step of the process—from foraging local plants for dyes to mordanting fibers to creating color combinations and motifs that reflect Mayan heritage. 

Beyond her artistic work, Olga is a committed teacher who mentors artisan cooperatives, particularly around Lake Atitlán. She helps artisans develop new designs, grow their businesses, and access international markets. For Olga, her craft is more than art—it’s a way of life deeply rooted in the connection between nature, culture, and community. She looks forward to welcoming you into her creative world.