The braid is an iconic symbol of women and femininity that has been intertwined across cultures since the beginning of time. For women of Oaxaca, the braid has great cultural significance. Grandmothers and mothers are often heard saying that in moments when sadness overtakes you, a braid could prevent the pain from crossing from the head to the heart.

Entrelazadas was created in 2020, reflecting on an intertwined global community in the face of a pandemic. The soft sculpture was created using agave fiber, a byproduct of the mezcal making process that is typically discarded. All fibers were naturally dyed using traditional Zapotec techniques. The braid was crafted strand by strand, inspiring a message of unity during a challenging time.

Agave fiber dyed with pomegranate and indigo by Antonion Ruíz

Silk ribbon dyed with palo de brasil by Sol Ruíz