Severa Santiago Paz is from the Zapotec village of San Antonino Castillo Velasco, Oaxaca. She started embroidering when she was 8-years-old and is the fourth generation in her family to follow this tradition. She was taught by her mother and grandmother and her sisters also keep their traditions alive — Severa is also training nieces and nephews and their children.

She embroidered before going to school and before going to play — a very difficult time because they had no electricity and embroidered by candlelight. It was difficult to market their work, since the only market open to them was resellers in the city of Oaxaca. In the year 2000, they received recognition and were invited to participate in events hosted by the Minist

In the year 2000, she was recognized and invited to participate in exhibitions and events by Ministerio de Cultura. She works hard to continue her family’s legacy wherever she can.

Embroidery is one of the main activities in her community of San Antonino and this embroidery carries the name of that town.

Several works with a cooperative of 80 women from her pueblo and others close by. Activities in their workshop include drawing, embroidery, weaving and knotting, washing and ironing, and marketing their work.

San Antonino is located 33 kilometers south of the City of Oaxaca and is known for the delicate textiles embroidered with silk and cotton thread, particularly dresses and blouses. The traditional garment that is made here is known as a “San Antonino Dress/Blouse”, and it is characterized by its fine multicolored embroideries that have their origin in the indigenous clothing of the women of the Central Valleys. This great craft requires a lot of time because you start by cutting the fabric, drawing, embroidering and stitching — all the steps included make this beautiful garment so special and unique.

Calle Independencia #7 

San Antonino Castillo Velasco

Oaxaca, Oaxaca

9511815313 Whatsapp

severasantiagomx@gmail.com

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