November 2017
We are planting the seed of a tree
— José Kuri, during the Encuentro.
that will cast a great shade for all.
In November 2017, the Valle de Huajes Network (RVH) gathered in Oaxaca for the first time to see first hand the work of Innovando la Tradición.
Everyone tried their hand at clay making, following the instructions of master artisan Francisca Ocampo to craft a comal (clay griddle). We enjoyed a moving conversation with most of the artisans participating in Innovando’s projects. They spoke of the importance of their occupation, their dreams, commitments, and challenges.
The following day we visited the Mateo family in San Marcos Tlapazola, who showed us their astounding pottery technique and opened their hearts to us as well.
After the workshop and the following conversations, the members of RVH were able to understand more deeply the objectives, challenges, and philosophy of Innovando la Tradición
This first gathering turned out to be for everyone —artisans, members of RVH, and the team from Innovando la Tradición— an experience full of questions and discoveries.
We are thankful for the attendance of: Eugenia Braniff, Marcela Echevarría, Jorge Espinosa y Julieta Giménez Cacho, Patricia Ortiz Monasterio y Jaime Riestra, Robin Petrovic, Uzyel Karp y Carmen Serra. And, of course, the 2017 presidents Gabriela Cámara and José Kuri who made this Encuentro a success.