Multicolores believes in the transformative power of artistry
Creative and economic development is the foundation of Multicolores. Our association is made up of groups of Maya women artists who practice two different contemporary textile art techniques: embroidery and rug-hooking. To support artists, Multicolores offers ongoing creative education opportunities, fair and immediate pay, and access to top-quality international markets.
Unique By Design
The hand-hooked and embroidered works of art created by Multicolores’ artists are completely unique— no two are alike. The designs, figures, color combinations, and compositions come entirely from the artists’ vision and imagination.
When artists have ownership of the design process, they express themselves and build confidence in their own creative capacity.
Heritage and innovation
For centuries, Maya women have woven cultural identity and pride into their handwoven huipiles (blouses) and other indumentaria Maya (traditional Mayan clothing). Multicolores’ artists often include motifs and color combinations inspired by huipil designs.
The power of good work
With their earnings from Multicolores, most artists have become the primary income earners in their family. The artists’ increased economic empowerment means they can invest in schooling, home improvements, nutrition, and more.
Our group model
Artists are organized into groups based on solidarity and cooperation. Each group meets at least one per month to review designs and quality. Groups are a source of social support, friendship, and community for artists.
Workshops
"Some artists had never used a pencil before their first workshop. Now, they are master designers."
- Participatory – engaging artists and teachers in mutual creative discovery
- Accessible – artists with varying education levels participate fully
- Honor culture and individuality – artists draw on aesthetic traditions from their communities and their imagination
- Social – rug hooking and embroidery artists from different communities and Mayan language groups form bonds and friendships
- Replicable – after each workshop, participants share the new insights and skills they have gained with the rest of their group
Artist Production Cycle
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Material selection
Multicolores provides raw base material and artists source other raw materials in their communities (recycled clothing, doll filling, etc)
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Design Process
Artists design their piece using templates and freehand drawing. Then they begin to stitch and hook their artwork, working in their homes according to their own schedule. Once complete, Artist groups meet to discuss their designs and review quality.
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Bringing Goods to Market
Representatives from each group deliver finished pieces to Multicolores for purchase and artists receive fair, immediate payment.
Each piece is photographed for sale online or for special events.
Our Creative Partners
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Woodcarver
Don Salvador Petzey
Talented woodcarver Don Salvador Petzey carves the intricate figures on our footstools. He also built custom ergonomic frames for the rug hooking artists.
“It’s amazing to see the creativity and talent of Multicolores’ artists. Every time I come to the office, I find new inspiration for my own art. It’s an honor to play a small part in the success of these Maya women.”
Hand dyed materials
Flor Ixcaco Cooperative
Flor Ixcaco Cooperative uses natural dyes to color fabric, creating a beautiful range of skin tones used to appliqué faces, hands, and feet in the embroidery artists’ work.