This week we are talking with Francisco and Laura Bautista of Bautista Fine Hand Wovens from Sandy, Oregon.
Francisco (a fourth generation Master weaver) and his wife Laura were born in Teotitlán del Valle (teohtetlan del valyay), a Zapotec village in Oaxaca, Mexico. The weavings they create are inspired by the the beauty of traditional Zapotec weavings, Navajo art and the Bauhaus design. They are both fascinated by the infinite possibilities of crossing threads, and the magic of dancing with their looms. Even when honoring the ancient ways, they never forget that weaving is more than a museum piece- it continues to grow with each generation as a living art, combining tradition with new expressions of colors, imagery and symbolism.
We got to see their weavings up close and personal at ACC Baltimore. The intricate color blending, the geometric shapes relating to organic forms, and a strong personal design voice really made them stand out. We were so happy to get to meet them in person, and hope someday to visit their studio and feel more of their work.
We hope you enjoy our talk with Francisco and Laura as we talk about their traditional looms, what inspires their work, and what it is like teaching the next generation of weavers in their family.
Find the Bautistas online : Website | Instagram
[PODCAST_SPONSORS]Things We Mentioned
Black Sheep Gathering : Website
Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival : Website