Otomí Embroidery

Otomí embroidery, also known as Tenango embroidery, is attributed to the indigenous Otomí-Tepehua community in the mountains surrounding Tenango de Doria in the state of Hidalgo. This region is known as “the cradle of embroidery” due to the community’s dedication to the craft.  Otomí artisans draw inspiration from daily life, resulting in work that typically depicts images of local festivities, harvests, religious ceremonies, natural landscapes, plants, and animals. Many Otomí artists add mythological creatures, abstract designs, and fantastical plants to their embroideries.  In addition to its distinct and joyful imagery, Otomí embroidery is well-loved for its vibrant use of color. Otomí embroidery technique maximizes the amount of colorful thread on the fabric by tactfully using what is available and minimizing thread on the backside.  In this workshop, participants will embroider a common Otomí motif at home, while learning about the history and deep cultural significance tha