"The Weaver" Mural

The process of preparing linen yarn was very complex, and it required the collaboration of many people from the town (primarily women and children).

Shortages during the post-war years made it difficult to acquire synthetic dyes, so natural elements from the surrounding environment were used instead, such as walnuts, gorse, tree bark, lichens, etc. These could be used to produce a beautiful range of colours. The elaborate weaving process could take many days, and because the linen required an environment with high humidity, the work was performed in enclosed spaces, using the light from candles or a small oil lamp.

This technique has practically disappeared, but the designs, patterns, and colours that these women gave to the fabric they wove represent an important page in Galicia’s history, and one which should not be forgotten.

We would like to thank the Anna Champeney Textile Studio for giving us a first-hand look at this traditional craft at its workshop in Cristosende.

Mural and text by Xoana Almar and Miguel Peralta (Cestola na Cachola). A Teixeira (Ourense). 2015. Created as part of the project "A Touch of Colour in Ribeira Sacra".