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Ciro Gutierrez

"I was born in 1968 in the sierra of Ayacucho. From the time I was very young, I was interested in learning the weaving art from the master weaver Gregorio Sulca. Everything I know was learned in his workshop.

"I've been using this medium to express my art since 1976. I work on a handloom creating rugs, tapestries and cushion covers. I began weaving a bedspread for my family, and today I weave other items that I sell. I use the loom, sheep wool and yarn, and a pot that boils over a wood fire to achieve the different tones and colors, in addition to dyes.

"I try to make designs that are distinctive – I try to break away from the common motifs by creating new patterns. I've never exhibited my work and this is one of my greatest dreams. I have appeared in documentaries with maestro Gregorio Sulca, and in the newspaper.

"I left Ayacucho during the difficult times of violence, but I always planned to return. However when I relocated, all my tools and possessions were stolen. It took me about half a year to begin again, and today I'm happy doing what I love.

"I'm teaching this art to my four children, who have also shown an interest just like I did so many years ago. I want to leave them this legacy.

"For me, no matter how simple it may be, this art is something beautiful. It's exciting when I feel the wool in my hands and begin to delineate the different forms according to my own inspiration. This is a great motivation for me. I try to transmit all the wonderful heritage of our ancestors in my work. I don't want this to die out. I want to show it to the world.

"My greatest challenge has been to continue creating my art, even in difficult times. Sometimes the family doesn't understand these critical situations.

"Again, my thanks to Novica."