Yolanda Sebastiana Calgua Morales, 34, lives in the village of Quiejel near Chichicastenango. An avid weaver since she the age of eight, Yolanda recalls that when she was a small child, she would sit for hours watching her mother weave, fascinated by the designs she was able to create. At the age of seven, her mother and grandmother taught her the traditional art of backstrap weaving and to this day, many consider Yolanda a master weaver.
Yolanda specializes in complex brocade textile designs, yet also produces simpler backstrap woven textiles. She creates intricate designs incorporating significant symbols from her culture. She is thankful to have learned this art from two of her role models, and hopes to teach her daughter in order to preserve their culture.
Outside of weaving, Yolanda is also knowledgable in other artistic techniques, including creating handwoven rugs, weaving pine needle baskets, and crocheting. Through her art, Yolanda has been invited to participate in fairs in the United States twice.
Weaving is my culture. Our ancestors taught us about this art and I want to make sure it is never lost.
Guaranteed Member of the
World Fair Trade Organization
