Maestros – meeting the artisans of Oaxaca
In a world where fast fashion and mass production dominate, there are still places where tradition, patience, and artistry thrive. Oaxaca is one such place. Here, generations of artisans have preserved techniques that date back centuries, creating extraordinary works with their hands, their hearts, and the natural world around them.
Visiting these maestros is not just about seeing their craft—it’s about understanding the deep connection they have to their materials, their ancestors, and their communities. Every piece they create carries a story, shaped by tradition and a way of life that refuses to be rushed or diluted.
Digging deep on a research trip in Mexico, I’ve made a point of searching out some of these these remarkable artisans. One maestro carefully carves wooden masks and alebrijes, spending months—sometimes years—perfecting each piece with intricate hand-painted details. Another works with wool, dyeing textiles with colours extracted from plants, minerals, and even insects – like the “cochinilla”, which gives the richest reds. There’s the potter who lost his sight 23 years ago but never stopped sculpting, crafting life-sized figures that honour his wife, his muse and inspiration. Others work with black pottery, an ancient technique passed down through generations, or weave delicate textiles on backstrap looms, sustaining entire villages with their art. And then there are the candle makers, whose wax creations, adorned with intricate floral designs, are as much a spiritual offering as they are a craft.
What makes these artisans truly extraordinary is not just their skill, but the philosophy behind their work. Sustainability is not just a buzzword here, it’s how things are and have always been. They take only what nature provides, following the belief that the earth gives everything needed to create beauty. Their work is sustainable by design and by definition, rooted in a respect for their environment. And beyond the craft itself, these are family traditions—skills handed down from parents to children, strengthening the fabric of their communities and preserving the cultural identity that makes Oaxaca so special.
These are the people and stories that inspire the journeys we create—immersive, hands-on experiences that go beyond observation and into the heart of tradition.
