Learn the techniques of Chilean applique and embroidery called “Arpilleras”. Using recycled fabrics and textile materials, you will create a collage to tell a story.
No previous experience required!
Oct. 17, 18, 19
10 am – 12:30 pm
$85 (includes sewing kit and materials)
To register, send an email to: [email protected]
Historical Background
An arpillera, which means burlap in Spanish, is a brightly colored patchwork picture made predominantly by groups of women (also known as arpilleristas), which became popular in Chile during Pinochet dictatorship (1973–90).
Arpilleras were made in workshops organized by Chilean Catholic Church committees and then secretly distributed abroad through the church’s human rights group, the Vicariate of Solidarity.
The production of arpilleras provided a vital source of income for the arpilleristas, due to unemployment and forced disappearances of their husbands and children, who became known as “desaparecidos”. Arpilleras are typically constructed from simple materials such as burlap and scraps of cloth. Arpilleras usually depicted political themes through demonstration scenes showing the impoverished living conditions and government repression. These scenes served to denounce the human rights violations of the Pinochet regime.
In response, the Chilean government sought to punish those who created arpilleras and those who supported their creation.
Arpilleras are currently recognized as an example of subversive women’s art in an authoritarian political context. However, contemporary arpilleras reflect less political themes, such as idealized rural life.
This workshop is given by artist, art therapist, and yoga instructor, Claudia Polo.
idiomART is located at: Mariscal Lamar y Estevez de Toral; Cuenca, Ecuador
