Handmade Alpaca Wool Striped Hat from Peru - Andean Twilight

Artisan Organization: Fernando Cano

Country: Peru

Update (June, 2019)

"I was born in 1973 in the district of Macate in Ancash. My parents were engaged in agriculture. I consider myself a very creative man, and very enterprising - I always want to be doing things, to go forward and never to stay behind. I'm very active and sociable. I trained a lot, in study centers like the Chamber of Foreign Trade of Lima and taking courses in Adex, all with a lot of practice and perseverance.

"One of my dreams is to continue growing as a textile artist, to be recognized not only locally but at the international level, and to give a better quality of life to my family. I love my art because it allows me to be very versatile in the design, the colors, and the textures to create each piece. I thank God who gave me this gift because today, I can say that I live what I really love. The road hasn't been easy, but it is worth it in every way.

"What I want to convey through my art is all my knowledge and practice that are reflected every time I finish a piece of apparel or an accessory, and I feel totally proud of the final result. I am currently a totally happy person, since very few people in this world dedicate themselves to something they really love, as I do. For me, this work means everything. I love and appreciate being able to move my family forward thanks to this."

Original Artisan Story

"The greatest challenge I've ever faced was getting my family to understand my passion for textiles. I was born in the Macate district of the Ancash department and my parents worked in the fields. My artistic origins come from my family — my uncles worked in textiles and, little by little, they introduced me to this world. I love being part of this world, where I can translate materials into beautiful, wearable designs.

"Getting started was difficult and my family didn't think I would make it, yet slowly but surely, I managed to prove them wrong. If you truly want something in life, you will do all that is within your means to get it.

"I've achieved every goal I have set for myself and, in this way, I have discovered new and wonderful techniques within this grand art form.

"As for hobbies, I enjoy playing soccer and, of course, everything related to the textile arts since I like playing with colors, fabrics and textures."

My work is motivated by a desire to show my art to people everywhere, from as many countries as possible! I would like my designs to transmit my experience and skills – each final piece is a proud representative of my creativity.

My work means everything to me. It's what I love and cherish, and I love the fact that I can provide for my family thanks to it. I consider myself a happy person and every day I strive to get ahead, not only in work, but also as a person, a husband, and a son.

I would like to thank everyone for allowing us into your homes, and for getting to know Peruvian arts and crafts. They are made with inspired hands."