Santa Maria Tlahuitoltepec, Mexico
MEET Julio
MAGIC IN THE MUD
Julio’s clay pieces speak directly to the heart of Oaxaca state, where there’s magic in the mud. The pottery is different in each region, with different colourings, different processes, and different clays – all with unique characteristics. Artisans here dig their own clay, form their own pieces, and fire their own wares, all on the shoulders of their ancestors who walked this land before them.
ANCESTRAL CRAFT
Indigenous Mixe are one of the most culturally conservative of the remaining pre-Hispanic groups and have managed to maintain their original, unwritten language, unlike many other Mexican groups. Recently they won an important international court decision, which awarded them copyright to their ancestral designs which previously have been widely shared for profit with no remuneration.
A COMMUNITY ART CENTRE
Obakki is honoured to work with Julio to help him reach his well-planned vision of a community art and pottery centre in his town. Julio strives to preserve ancient traditions – and help his community – while he creates his amazing pottery. He’s our kind of person.
AS SEEN IN
global community
MEET our other artisan partners from around the world
We celebrate slow design and artisan craft from thousands of artisans around the world. From Mexico to Uganda to Japan, we are excited to introduce you to our artisan partners.