Puerto Rico, 2015.

Through a series of workshops, visits to local master artisans, and self-directed study, I’ve been learning traditional craft techniques from Puerto Rico and capturing oral history. With each visit, I am invited to the depth of their understanding that spans from knots or stitches used for lacemaking, to the medicinal use of plants that they make fiber with and where to find them.

My interest in having these experiences stems from skills and stories passed on from my mother and grandmother throughout working sessions together. This familial practice appears to be shared by most artisans. This knowledge is their legacy.

Artisans visited to date:

• Edwin Marcucci – Cestero, Tallador. Adjuntas, PR
• Sandra Rodríguez Martínez – Tejedora de Soles y Mundillo. Moca, PR
• Eustaquio Allers – Hamaquero. Aguadilla, PR
• Esmeralda Morales – Hamaquera, Mayagüez, PR

This research has been made possible in part by El Serrucho, a grant awarded by Beta-Local. And, also thanks to fellow artist Jorge Gonzáles, who has generously shared his information and resources with me.