"Urdimbre" means warp in Spanish; the vertical threads that structure a loom. It is the support for constructing a message and generating new dialogs. This space is an invitation to experiment and learn about different fibers by combining artisanal weaving and braiding techniques that I have learned in different parts of Peru; such as basketry, weaving (loom/backstrap) and cordage.
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I have been practicing meditation for 10 years and knitting/weaving since I was a kid, and in this space, I seek to share both knowledge: meditation as a tool to cultivate well-being and the textile workshop as a creative space that encourages the development of personal projects.​​​
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If we look at the microscopic level, we will notice that everything, absolutely everything, is made up of a web. Our bodies are a fabric; every organ, muscle, bone, cell, etc., everything is fabric. If we learn to bring our attention to the sensations of the body, we get in touch with those tissues.​
During the first few minutes before each session, we will learn specific coordination, attention, breathing and meditation exercises. The repetition of this practice will strengthen a body's memory. Exercises that can be used at any time when needed, and thus learn to reduce stress levels and restore natural well-being. This prior preparation will lead us to a state conducive to manual creation, increasing sensitivity levels in sight, touch, and even in the mind.
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​​We then immerse ourselves in the textile creative process, motivating participants to experiment with different patterns and fibers, using basketry, frame loom, knotting, embroidery, or crochet techniques. A space to connect and form a textile community. A balance between listening to an authentic and personal project and sharing advice, experiences, and tricks.
Collaborations (International)​​
I have had the opportunity to travel teaching what I have learned and facilitating workshops in places such as JCAF Johannesburg (2024), University of Alabama (2024), University of New Mexico (2024), Wassaic NY (2023), Casa Blanca (2022).
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Wassaic Project NY, , Hollymood Casa Blanca - Marruecos, , Entre__rios (Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam; El Charquito y Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá; Universidad Anáhuac, CDMX ), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (Facultad de Arte y Diseño y Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo), Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas.
Testimonials:
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"Discovering that I can knit with my hands, finding in creating a form of meditation and introspection"
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"I love it!!! Especially because within a structure there is a lot of freedom
"For those of you who haven't had the pleasure, Alejandra taught me and others, via The Wassaic Project, how to turn this invasive species (Phragmites australis) into beautiful woven cord. In a couple of weeks, I will be passing on this technique and also the basics of crochet-- can't wait! Art + Science "
Alejandra Ortiz de Zevallos
A sculptor and teacher at PUCP, she recently earned an MFA from the University of New Mexico. Through her textile work, she explores the symbolic language of unity, interaction, and reproduction. Her work addresses themes such as the creation of life, the dependencies of organisms, and the relationship between humans and the environment. She also leads natural fiber braiding workshops based on traditional techniques learned during her 2020 Mater residency in Moray, Cusco. Her work has been exhibited at the Museo de Arte de Lima, PaRC PINTA 2022 and 2024, Galería del Paseo, La Mancha, Wu Galería, CCPUCP, Museo AMANO, and Museo Pedro de Osma. Her work has been exhibited internationally at Youmein (Tanger), Lagos (CDM), JCAF (Johannesburg), and Palazzo Madama (Turin). In 2022 she received an Honorable Mention in the 12th National Painting Competition of the BCRP, in 2023 she was a beneficiary of the Economic Incentives for Culture, and in 2024 she obtained the Surge Fund from the Mcknight Foundation. Her research is part of Future Materials Bank and she is also a member of the Ensayos and entre-ríos collectives.
* Available for collaborations/workshops with institutions and communities
Bibliografía y Materiales disponibles
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