Weaving Networks for Conservation: A space where art and nature meet
November 22, 2023
Puerto Aysén – Weaving, painting, and textile work are some of the artistic expressions that can deliver powerful messages, raise community awareness, and strengthen bonds.
This is the view of the Kreen Foundation, an organization dedicated to the conservation of the Aysén Region, which launched the “Weaving Networks for Conservation” project, whose first event took place on October 14th.
“The project aims to foster a creative space to strengthen ties between the community of Río Los Palos, Puerto Aysén, and the Meullín-Puye Nature Sanctuary, connecting with the collective memory surrounding the ecosystems, nature, and native species of the area and its surroundings,” explained Olivia Vergara, project coordinator at the Kreen Foundation.
More than 30 participants of all ages joined this gathering with a shared motivation: to protect the environment and live in harmony with the diverse life forms that surround them.
Sandra Cárcamo, a resident of Puerto Aysén, has spent over 30 years exploring various corners of her community, forging a strong connection with her surroundings. “I leave with a sense of nostalgia, as I’ve traveled extensively through these places… constantly in contact with this beautiful nature. That’s why I leave happy, fulfilled, and more at peace knowing that these organizations exist, caring for these wonders we have to ensure their preservation.”
Students from the Santa Teresa de los Andes High School in Puerto Aysén also joined the workshop, eager to learn new textile art techniques. Cristóbal Cárcamo, a junior, commented that for him, “it’s fun that it’s not limited to just art and science, but rather unites them and allows interests to blend (…) I think it’s very important to preserve these spaces. Through art, many messages can be conveyed, both abstract and literal.”
Pulso Austral is the organization facilitating this project, which views art, culture, education, and science as tools for social transformation. Cecilia Moura, a psychologist and team member, explained, “Building networks allows us to promote the well-being of communities (…) In this instance, offering spaces for encounter and exchange through textile creation to the community near the Meullín-Puye Sanctuary can open new languages and opportunities for connection with the land, as well as new ways of thinking about caring for our planet.”
Harmony, connection, love, happiness, and hope were some of the words that emerged when participants were asked what emotions their surroundings evoked. These emotions were then embroidered on fabric with various colors and decorations. All of this took place in an atmosphere of complicity, trust, and camaraderie. “We hope to motivate the participation and interest of the local community in being custodians of this valuable territory, as they are key players in its conservation and well-being,” concluded Olivia Vergara.
Este proyecto se continuará realizando con una actividad mensual, junto a la facilitación de Pulso Austral y el acompañamiento de maestras artesanas experimentadas de la Región en diversas disciplinas, junto a la colaboración del Liceo Santa Teresa de los Andes, el Comité Pro-Adelanto Laguna y Río Los Palos, y el departamento de Cultura de la Municipalidad de Aysén.
