PONTO E TRAMA

In the context of the parish of Branca, in Coruche, the artist developed a co-creative artistic residency that culminated in the creation of a tapestry piece using the Arraiolos stitch. This initiative engaged 21 local community members, united over 10 days of intense production and sharing. From the start of the residency, the artist was profoundly, and somewhat unconsciously, inspired by the green, pink, and beige tones, which echo the heather fields abundant in Coruche's landscape. Her emotional connection with the element of water, particularly symbolized by the Ribeira de Lavre, which geographically points towards Arraiolos, was essential for the development of this project. The artist experimented with various techniques, including the use of water, soap, and India ink, resulting in the drawing that she later developed into the tapestry. In addition to the heather and water-inspired colors, beige was chosen to evoke the hues of wheat and rice, with meaningful words painted over the wool—words that were spoken and shared between the artist and all participants. The artwork also incorporates "canudos," traditional tools used during the harvest, which protected the middle, ring, and little fingers during arduous labor. The shape of the piece represents the form of the territory that served as the theme and inspiration for the initial development of all ideas. The Arraiolos stitch technique, originating from the Alentejo region in the 16th century, was employed, reviving a historical stitch that became rare due to the “need” for industrialization. This project not only celebrates tradition but also strengthens community bonds through art. Tapestry in Arraiolos stitch 170 x 173 cm