Faces of Tradition: Weaving Elders of the Andes

Faces of Tradition: Weaving Elders of the Andes vividly portrays dozens of ancient weavers and the landscapes that they occupy in the Cusco region of the Andes. The book reveals the personal stories and life experiences of the weavers, bringing to life the decades of endurance, skill, fortitude and natural pride honed from the time-honored traditions of the region and its people.


“This beautifully made new book focuses on the culture of the Andean people thru individuals,” said Linda Ligon, the creator of Thrums Books. “The Andean people portrayed are so poor, materially and so rich culturally. They have had incredibly hard lives, yet these women are carrying on their culture and prevailing. They are so proud of who they are.” Joe Coca’s intimate photographs capture the elders, some of who had never seen a picture of themselves or even looked in a mirror, in striking images, revealing the life, strength, character and experience of these men and women.


“When I began travelling throughout the Cusco region to work with weavers, I met many remarkable women and men whose hands and minds were never still from their fascination with cloth,” said Callañaupa Alvarez. “In this book I hope to share with many more people the opportunity to meet these Elders and the communities that surround and support them.”