Threads of Tomorrow

Designers

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Threads of Tomorrow

Increasing Colombian Artisan Appreciation

Designers

Laura Ramírez Velásquez

Key Words

SUMMARY

Colombian artisans inherit an ancient legacy dating to the pre-Columbian era, a heritage passed down through generations. However, the forces of globalization, consumerism, economic volatility, and rapid digitalization have led to their systematic undervaluation, reducing them to mere crafters. Consequently, newer generations of artisans are compelled to seek alternative livelihoods. I firmly advocate for a fundamental shift in this mindset. That's why I developed Cumaré's first project, Threads of Tomorrow: A comprehensive guide aimed to educate our 21st-century society about the value carried by artisans and their crafts, therefore cultivating a culture of appreciation and support.

challenge

Even though the challenge I aimed to overcome went through significant changes, I realized that Colombian artisans were not to blame for their undervaluation. Our society has shifted towards a preference for fast, low-quality, and inexpensive goods, causing the undervaluation of artisan knowledge and craftsmanship. This deprivation not only deprives them of the ability to sustain fulfilling lives but also of the recognition they rightfully deserve for their expertise. Additionally, when artisans collaborate with designers and companies, they often do not receive the recognition they deserve. This oversight makes it difficult for society and buyers to see their value, overlooking their vital role in preserving cultural heritage

Outcome

In response to the undervaluation and underrepresentation of Colombian artisans, I founded Cuamaré, a collective dedicated to preserving, advocating for, and celebrating Colombian ancestral knowledge. Recognizing that a shift in mindset was crucial for real change, I embarked on an educational initiative. Our inaugural project is a physical and digital guide designed to enlighten contemporary society about the value of artisans, handicrafts, and their cultural legacy. In addition to providing insights into Colombian artisans' contexts, it emphasizes the importance of heritage preservation and offers a curated list of ethical resources for individuals to transparently contribute, learn, and support with trust.