Zapotec Weaver to Speak Out at Mission Mill Museum

(Salem) - Pastora Gutierrez, a Zapotec weaver from Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico, will discuss her experiences as a member and director of La Vida Nueva, a women`s weaving collective, at Mission Mill Museum on Friday, Feb. 3 at noon. Juanita Rodriguez of Corvallis will translate.

This exhibit, entitled `Manos Que Tejen," highlights the work of Vida Nueva (`New Life"), a cooperative formed by women fighting abuse and oppression in their daily lives. The patterns and techniques of weaving have been passed down for generations in their village, although until the 1950s, only men did the weaving. The colors used are all made from natural materials, such as the indigo plant for blue, or the cochineal insect for red. The material is 100% wool, purchased from local ranchers and processed by hand.

The designs used in the rugs have meaning. Birds stand for liberty and infinity, arrows for protection or strength, stair steps for stages of life. The arrangement of design elements also adds to the message: `La Greca de la Fuerza" is a traditional Zapotec design showing the many layers of protection around the center diamond shapes. These diamonds represent power in the Zapotec community: the power of the individual, the family, the community. The outer layers represent the generations that have come before that shield and protect with their experience and wisdom. Their energy is directed inward, to nourish and vitalize the center.

The cooperative serves to avoid the exploitation of store owners and middlemen by allowing the members to sell their rugs directly to the consumer. The pieces in the exhibit are all for sale, and other pieces may be ordered as well. Order forms are available in the gallery.

Pastora`s talk will introduce the new exhibit in the museum`s changing exhibit gallery. Entry to the exhibit is included in a regular tour purchase: $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for children. Those attending Pastora`s presentation are invited to take a tour and see the work on display. Members of the museum are invited to the exhibit opening that same evening, where a spectacular array of food will be served and the exhibit will be open free of charge.

The Mission Mill Museum`s histories are shared with visitors through daily and group tours, interpretation, speakers, living history, children`s programs, hands-on activities, special events, the museum store, and rental facilities.