Bertha Servin Barriga and Teófila Servin Barriga are members of a needlework guild from the villages surrounding Lake Pátzcuaro, in the nearby state of Michoacán. The specialty of this cooperative group is colorful hand embroidery work on manta (a traditional hand-woven cotton) or other cotton cloth. Their unique, whimsical, and original designs tell of life in their lakeside communities: farming, fishing, fiestas, marriages, and other events. The rich imaginations of the artists enliven their charming tapestries.

Embroidery is the art or handicraft of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread or yarn. Handed down from generation to generation, it is often difficult to trace how far back the art of bordados has traveled through the ages. One thing is known, however, the pride in their skills and workmanship is brilliantly apparent in the crafts they sell.

The Pátzcuaro area has long been an outstanding center of craft work. Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the local artisans were noted for fine jewelry and feather work. The area was devastated during the Conquest, and then a remarkable man named Vasco de Quiroga arrived. Don Vasco, who is still revered in Michoacán, rebuilt the area and encouraged each village to specialize in a particular craft. The pre-Conquest arts were revitalized, and Spanish techniques were introduced to produce a wider range of goods.

The origins of embroidery can be dated back to Cro-Magnon days or 30,000 BC. Archaeological finds have unearthed fossilized remains of heavily hand-stitched and decorated clothing, boots and hats. Embroidery and most other fiber and needlework arts are believed to originate in the Orient and Middle East. Primitive humankind quickly found that the stitches used to join animal skins together could also be used for embellishment.

A delightful aspect of having these talented artists at the Feria is that they will embroider for you while you wait. Bring jackets and skirts and have them personalized!

Contact information:
Km 15 Hwy Patzcuaro-Quiroga
Rancho Sanabria
443 371 9256 or 443 305 9967

Or contact Marianne Carlson at 011522 376 765 7485 or email mariannecarlson@gmail.com