Raul’s BIO

My name is Raul Quispe Rodriguez.

I am Tapestry weaver. 

Raul-with Handwoven tapestry

I was born in a small community in the high Andes of Peru, about 70 km north of Ayacucho—a region known as the “cradle of weaving.” At the age of twelve, I left my village and moved to Ayacucho to study the art of weaving. I lived with my uncle, dedicating myself to learning this ancient craft so I could one day make a living from it.

My journey began with mastering natural dyeing techniques—understanding how to extract colors from plants and minerals, and how to blend threads to create rich shades and tones. Next, I studied the loom itself: how to set it up, adjust it for different weaving styles, repair it when needed, and assemble it from scratch.

Once I grasped these fundamentals, I began weaving. I started with geometric patterns, gradually improving my ability to mix colors and create harmonious designs. Later, after moving to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, I explored advanced techniques, including 3D effects and contemporary patterns. This opened up a whole new world for me—a world of color, depth, and endless creative possibilities.

My technique is rooted in classical weaving traditions that have remained unchanged for generations. Some of my designs are inspired by the ancient Wari culture, while others reflect a more modern aesthetic.

Today, I live with my wife and daughter in San Salvador, a small town in the Sacred Valley of Peru, where I continue to weave, create, and share my passion for this timeless art.