Woven Lives

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Description

Textile art and artists play an active role in the culture of the Zapotec communities in Oaxaca, Mexico. Following the work and daily lives of weavers from six different villages in the region, this documentary traces the evolution of their weaving tradition from its early development millennia ago to the present day. The story also looks at the integration of ancient techniques with new technologies and explores how Zapotec artisans are now drawing upon the past to help them move toward the future. Viewers gain an understanding of the importance of the weaver's tools and materials-including naturally produced dyes, traditionally cultivated silks, and hand-operated looms-as well as broader cultural insights in this extraordinary mix of anthropology, history, and design studies.