Panorama of the textile crafts of Otavalo

Abstract

This article examines textile craftsmanship in Otavalo, Ecuador, highlighting its historical and current relevance. Otavalo is recognized as the main center of artisanal textile production in the country, where indigenous people have developed a notable reputation for both their textile skills and their commercial ability. The study reviews the evolution of the textile craft from pre-Hispanic times to the present, addressing both the continuity of traditional techniques and the incorporation of modern elements in production. It analyzes how the demand of the tourist market has driven changes in production, which is now mostly oriented towards external consumers, and how these changes have affected the regional identity of textiles. Finally, the creation of an Artisanal Training Center is proposed to preserve and strengthen traditional techniques, ensuring that Otavalo textile craftsmanship continues to be a symbol of identity and quality without sacrificing its distinctive characteristics.