We often have the impression that capitalism and sustainability are antonyms. However, according to Ben Shepard, expert in sustainable design, the definition of capitalism is changing. It is now understood that natural recourses are no longer unlimited and free. These resources and the pollution caused is being priced to send the correct message to the market and support sustainable proposals and projects.
ExpoArtesanías is a Latin American artisanal fair from Colombia that proposes to give a wider reach to the hands of artisans. A fair composed of multiple artisans and indigenous communities of this country, known and reputed for its diversity. Let me give you a glimpse of what I believe is still one of the most authentic and richest encounters in South America.
The indigenous communities and artisans are the creators of textile luxury in Colombia. These textiles are characteristic for being completely handmade, full of stories that have a "rustic and artisanal feel". Meanwhile, European textiles are worldly well-known for being luxury, made with the highest quality materials for a "refined and elegant finish". I am interested in going deeper and questioning the ideas and definitions we have of luxury in textiles.