Andean Textile Arts

Concerned that knowledge of traditional weaving techniques could be lost in this generation, ATA supports efforts to revitalize and share the art and knowledge of Andean textiles. Andean Textile Arts is an organization dedicated to supporting the people and communities of the Andes in their efforts to preserve and revitalize their textile traditions. 

ATA is an all volunteer organization with no paid staff. It depends on the support of people who share our goals  of preserving and encouraging the art, knowledge, and social values that underlie the work of traditional artisans in and around Cusco. Hundreds of weaving families have a better life through the work of ATA.

ATA works closely with the Center for Traditional Arts of Cusco, Peru. The Center is made up community associations in ten villages. Through ATA, supporters of CTTC  give time and resources to weaving and educational programs, community and economic development projects, and capacity-building efforts.

 In North America, ATA offers educational tours to Cusco, sponsors Peruvian weavers’ attendance at museum events, festivals and workshops, and promotes Andean textile arts to the larger community. ATA is a U.S. 501(c)3 nonprofit.

Through the generosity of many donors, ATA raised $500,000 to make possible the purchase of the Center’s building on Avenida Sol, housing a retail shop for weavers’ textiles, administrative offices, an educational center, the permanent collection, dormitories for visiting weavers, and a museum.

Each year, CTTC hosts Christmas fiestas in each of its ten villages. Hot chocolate, traditional Christmas bread, and toys are distributed to over a thousand children. ATA has been the main sponsor of this special project. Small donations from supporters go a long way to bring joy to weaving families.

ATA has supported CTTC’s educational work. Initially, CTTC worked with elder weavers to teach traditional patterns and weaving techniques. It has reintroduced the use of natural dyes, and provides educational opportunities through events like Tinkuy and workshops at the Center.

Our earliest grants funded the construction of weaving shelters. The shelters were crucial to the early success of CTTC: they provided community centers where weavers from outlying areas came together on a regular basis to learn, work, and give support to one another, protected from the elements.

Since its inception, CTTC has brought together the youth of the villages to learn to weave jakimas as their first projects. These narrow bands incorporate the signature patterns of a particular village, and are the building blocks of larger textiles. Youth projects continue to be a priority.

During annual weaving competitions, CTTC weavers enter their best woven and knitted textiles in several categories. The top three weavers from each village are awarded prizes. CTTC purchases winning textiles to add to its permanent collection.