he vivid, amazing imagery in Otomi embroidery, often referred to as Tenangos are more than just a decoration It’s a long-standing art form that has a visual vocabulary. The Mexican textile art is a testament to the strength, spirituality and deep connection with nature possessed in people of the Otomi People (or Hnahnu) of Central Mexico. For those who are interested in Mexican textiles, as well as Mexican textiles, unraveling the secrets of Tenango will reveal an inspiring, vibrant tale.
The History: From Caves to Crisis (and Revival)
The tale that is the story of Tenango tells of a story an ancient tale of pre-Hispanic culture and is influenced by the current economic crisis.
1. Pre-Hispanic Roots and The Legend
The basis of Otomi art is in the traditional cosmology from the past and. As Bordados (embroidery) methods have evolved over time, the distinctive designs are believed to have been drawn from cave paintings that were discovered on the Mexican Altiplano in which Otomi people have lived for millennia. Otomi people have inhabited for millennia.
According to the legend, local hunters carved intricate rock art that depicted fantastical creatures, and then brought the artwork back to their communities. The art of the indigenous people was often incorporated into mexican dress and religious fabrics before it was the global phenomenon that it is today.
2. The Birth of the Tenango (The 1960s Crisis)
The current style of this art, known as the Tenango began in the 1960s within the city in Tenango de Doria, Hidalgo. A severe, devasting drought caused the traditionally farming Otomi people to look for alternative ways to earn money.
Women from the local community, who had for a long time practiced the art of embroidery in the traditional manner modified their art to sell commercially. It was easier to simplify the complicated traditional patterns and transferred large designed designs on white. The simplified design, with bright colors, made it easier to create and soon became the most popular Tenango arts form, assisting communities to grow and prosper economically.
The Secrets: Decoding the Designs and Stitches
The charm in Otomi embroidery patterns lies in the symbolism as well as a innovative, unique technique.
1. Symbolism: A Harmonious Codex
Each figure within the Otomi style is an oblique symbol making up a vibrant “modern codex” that narrates the culture that is the view of people of the Otomi community. The designs emphasise the harmonious relationship to nature as well as man.
- Fauna animals such as deer rabbits, birds, and armadillos frequently represent Guardian spirits, a messenger or characters from local mythologies.
- Flora Plants, flowers and trees represent fertility and life as well as the connection with Mother Earth..
- arrangement: The figures are generally placed in a semi-symmetrical non-repeating pattern, which fills the canvas. There are no two artworks being identical. It is because the Otomi design concept ensures that every work is unique.
2. The Stitch Secret: Minimal Back-Stitching
The most intriguing secret that is the Tenango is its efficient usage of thread. The vivid, vibrant color zones are made with a special, narrow variant of Satin Stitch as well as altered Herringbone Stitch.
The trick is easy and incredible The stitching process is mostly on the fabric’s front. If you flip the original Tenango the back of the cloth is largely blank and only shows some of the figures. This ensures that the process is highly efficient and guarantees that the stunning colorful, vibrant figures really stand out against the material.
Modern Impact: From Tenango to Textile
In the present, Otomi embroidery is featured on everything from walls to Mexican embroidered jackets as well as Otomi dresses designs. Although the global popularity has generated much-needed revenue but it also raises questions regarding fair trade as well as cultural appropriation. Making purchases from cooperatives of artisans or directly from the local community can help keep the craft alive and ensures that the Otomi people are the main recipients of their amazing Otomi art.
