In Spanish, “colcha” means bedspread, but for New Mexicans, it’s an artform. Colcha Embroidery, a more accurate description, can be found not only on bedspreads, but pillows, clothing, wall hangings, and more. Colcha traces back to Spanish influences brought to New Mexico during the colonial period. Early settlers brought Churro sheep, whose wool became central to the development of weaving and Colcha. Churro wool is still used at Las Golondrinas today to create the beautifully colored thread used in the iconic stitch. Wool and thread is dyed on site naturally using local plants or cochineal. Colcha pieces traditionally feature plants, animals or religious figures. Some are more elaborate with full scenes of daily life in New Mexico, covering the entire surface of the cloth. Originally, Colcha embroidery was done to mend a tear in a cloth, but evolved to the colorful artform it is today. Join us for this talk to learn more about Colcha history and make sure to visit Las Golondrinas where Colcha art is thriving!
Marlene has volunteered at Las Golondrinas since 2009. Although she embroidered as a child, dabbled in needlepoint as an adult, and enjoys sewing, she does not weave or do Colcha embroidery, but she has a profound respect for those who do, especially when they create new motifs or make innovative changes to old ones. Marlene dedicated extensive time researching and writing about the Colcha pieces in the Las Golondrinas collection, highlighting some of the most beautiful and unique details of the pieces adorning the Chapel.
Julia has volunteered at Las Golondrinas since 2000 as part of the weavers group. A retained school teacher turned award-winning Colcha artist won best-in-show at the Santa Fe Traditional Spanish Market in 2010 and continues to showcase, sell, and win awards for her work. She is a member of the Sandia Mountains chapter of the nonprofit Embroiderers’ Guild of America, teaches Colcha at the New Mexico Heritage Arts Museum, and her work is on display at several cultural institutions around New Mexico and Colorado. Julia has shared her artistry around the world.
Both Marlene and Julia are former Volunteers of the Year at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas.
These talks are FREE and open to members and volunteers. General admission $10 – cash or check.
Please RSVP to Laura Griego at [email protected]. Thank you!
