Creator Spotlight: Zuahaza by Tatiana
With a creative lab in Bogotá and a production studio in Charalá, Colombian textile expert Tatiana Ordoñez leads Zuahaza by embracing sisterhood. With a diverse team of women by her side, she creates textile products that deeply reflect Colombia’s ancestral traditions. Each piece is made with organic fibers and natural dyes, as Tatiana’s philosophy and approach to design is rooted in sustainable and fair trade values. By advocating for collaboration between women and the sanctity of earth’s resources, she hopes to be a part of the textile industry’s evolution. Hear what Tatiana has to say about her process.
My first source of inspiration…
Colombia’s diversity of culture, food and ecosystems.
The coolest thing about my process is…
The collaboration behind it. I collaborate with artisan makers to bring to life timeless pieces which are a reflection of our ancestors’ knowledge and our modern take on sustainable design.
I started my business in order to…
Create sustainable employment for women artisans in Colombia by revitalizing the craft of making textiles and collaborating to innovate in product and design.
Original art and design is important because…
It is a reflection of an individual’s story, values and dreams. In my case working with a team of artisans, I believe making original work lies in the equal exchange of knowledge between artisans and designers. I am an advocate for collaboration and believe this is the only way to honor our ancestral traditions and embrace new ways of making. I think that research through making is the only way to create innovative designs that are rooted in sustainable and fair trade values.
If I were an art movement I would be…
Art Nouveau. I am fascinated by Antoni Gaudi’s organic product designs and stunning architectural pieces.
If I could bring one tool to a desert island it would be…
As many yarns as my arms could carry! I could build a tapestry loom form island fallen branches and weave my heart out! It would be also a great time killer.
My favorite creator on Wescover is…
Heather Day. Absolutely love her paintings. We also went to the same art school!
