Valeria Montag
Mulheres de Fibra (Fibre Women), 2024
Raw cotton fabric, handmade lace, quilt, handmade embroidery, cotton crochet, burlap
30.5 x 61 cm
Copyright The Artist
$ 750.00
The work 'Fiber Women' was created in partnership with artisans from the interior of Ceará, in northeastern Brazil. These women are heads of households who support large families by selling...
The work "Fiber Women" was created in partnership with artisans from the interior of Ceará, in northeastern Brazil. These women are heads of households who support large families by selling handmade crafts they produce daily and tirelessly, alongside their domestic activities. These traditional textile practices, such as lace, embroidery, quilts, and crochet, incorporate Portuguese, African, and Indigenous influences, reflecting the blend of cultures that make up Brazil. In Portuguese, the expression "Mulheres de fibra" or "Fiber Women" means Strong Women. The craft is passed down from generation to generation and is unique within Brazilian culture with its diverse influences.
The embroidered texts on the fabrics refer to family stories and traditional songs passed down through generations. Despite being poorly paid, this work is crucial for preserving a community's memory and tradition. Their true strength lies in keeping the local culture alive. Although living in a predominantly patriarchal and sexist society, through hard work and unity, these artisans manage to sustain themselves and keep their culture and traditions alive without needing men for their livelihood. The power lies in their unity and collective effort.
Much like the friezes of ancient Greece that tell stories of resilience and endurance, this artwork narrates these Brazilian women's continuous struggle and perseverance. Greek friezes often depicted scenes of battles, daily life, and mythological events that highlighted the strength and endurance of individuals and communities. Similarly, this textile piece captures these women's everyday battles and unwavering determination to preserve their cultural heritage. Through their art and unity, they create a visual and emotional tapestry that celebrates their resilience, mirroring the timeless tales of strength.
The embroidered texts on the fabrics refer to family stories and traditional songs passed down through generations. Despite being poorly paid, this work is crucial for preserving a community's memory and tradition. Their true strength lies in keeping the local culture alive. Although living in a predominantly patriarchal and sexist society, through hard work and unity, these artisans manage to sustain themselves and keep their culture and traditions alive without needing men for their livelihood. The power lies in their unity and collective effort.
Much like the friezes of ancient Greece that tell stories of resilience and endurance, this artwork narrates these Brazilian women's continuous struggle and perseverance. Greek friezes often depicted scenes of battles, daily life, and mythological events that highlighted the strength and endurance of individuals and communities. Similarly, this textile piece captures these women's everyday battles and unwavering determination to preserve their cultural heritage. Through their art and unity, they create a visual and emotional tapestry that celebrates their resilience, mirroring the timeless tales of strength.