Lisa

I joined this VAWAA because I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture while learning an art form that is deeply rooted in Guatemala's history. As someone who loves exploring different creative disciplines, I was excited to learn directly from a master artist and gain a better understanding of traditional textile practices.

I also hoped to come home with something tangible that I had created myself and more importantly, with new skills and inspiration that I could continue developing long after the apprenticeship ended.

I came home with far more than I expected. I wove my own tapestry, naturally dyed multiple pieces of clothing and fabric with indigo, and brought home several skeins of hand-dyed yarn that I can't wait to incorporate into future weaving and knitting projects.

More than the finished pieces, I left feeling incredibly inspired. This apprenticeship exceeded my expectations and gave me a whole new appreciation for natural dyeing as an art form. I'm already excited to continue experimenting with natural dyes back home and incorporate what I learned into my own creative practice.