Handmade Orange and Black Andean Wool Tapestry, "Wildlife"

"I was born in September of 1972 in Ayacucho. I consider myself a hardworking man in love with Peruvian art.

"Ayacucho is a privileged place. In the 17th century, it was already an important textile center, which made it one of our most important cities during the colonial period. Our textiles today are the legacy of a long pre-Hispanic tradition that includes the weavings of the Paracas, Inca and Wari peoples of the area. Our city has long been considered the capital of Peru's handicrafts. Here you will find weavers, ceramists, jewelry craftspeople, gourd carvers and famous painters. I'm proud to belong to this beautiful place and to represent my homeland through my art.

"Weaving runs through my veins. I grew up amid looms and yarns since my family has been dedicated to weaving for several generations. I used to help my parents in their little workshop. We had to do all kinds of things to support the family through many hardships. I had to work in other workshops, which actually made me learn more about different details and such. But I was a curious child and this helped me grow as an artisan.

"Today I have my own family. They help me and support me, involving themselves with the entire process since 1980, when I opened my own workshop. But I constantly remember how it was learning from my parents. They made me the man I am today, confident of what I can do with my own hands. I want to represent my people.

"My art requires dedication. I am inspired by Inca colors and patterns, and I work with natural wool. I am motivated by a desire to show the whole world our Peruvian culture. I want people to get to know about the quality of life in our villages through our art, designs and culture, and the richness of our creations.

"I love working in different colors and I find inspiration in the land of my birth — its history and the stories of my ancestors. I especially love preserving our traditions and techniques.

"My art benefits my community in that I give work to those who need it so that my neighbors can also support their families. The doors to my workshop are always open.

"My greatest challenge is to bring you my designs, show you my colors and tell you about our history and culture, of which I feel very proud. I have a deep love for my people, so I feel the responsibility to offer you tapestries of the highest quality. Each piece I weave carries the best of me for you. Gracias!"