Close Window

Cesar and David Laura

"Great master of Ayacucho inherited the art of the Inca and Wari cultures but in the 1970s and 1980s, many women and men fled the region due to terrorism," Cesar and David tell us. "A whole generation migrated to Lima, where artisans were able to preserve their craft. Thus, much of Ayacucho artistry is now made in Lima. We are amongst these people, we come form a long family weaving tradition and we are keen to see our art preserved."

Cesar says, "I learned to weave under my father's watchful glance. I began to learn at a very young age because we needed to contribute to the family's finances during the days of terrorism. I began to study engineering at Peru's National University, but due to economic constraints I had to drop out so I could dedicate my time wholeheartedly to textile weaves. Eventually I studied digital art and design so that I could innovate my textile designs while keeping true to traditional weaving techniques."

David continues, "I've been with Novica for many years now. Like Cesar did, I moved to Lima with my wife and kids trying to find a way to support them better. I studied different weaving techniques, and one day Cesar and I decided to set up a workshop where we could try new ideas.

"As David Laura Zanabria in Novica, I offer tapestries woven on traditional looms with ancestral techniques. And now I have also teamed up with my brother Cesar and other master weavers, so we can try out new designs and weaving techniques we are eager to develop. Our tapestries are entirely woven on traditional looms with alpaca wool as the main material. Our designs and techniques may be contemporary, yet we are always inspired by our cultural ancestors. We collectively sign our work as Inka to honor our legacy."