Angélica Chiles

Expanding the creative reach of tamo straw

• Angélica creates striking decorative objects using unique traditional straw marquetry techniques
• Her works are inspired by raw fibre and the La Cocha lagoon
• She interprets delicate pattern designs through an intuitive making process

Angélica Chiles specialises in tamo, the traditional technique of straw marquetry used in the Nariño region of southern Colombia, where she lives and works. "I try to echo the patchworked hills of Nariño through the curved patterns and gradient hues of my tamo creations," she says. Angélica's curiosity and skills have paved the way for a successful practice she used to think was unattainable. In 1996, she sought work in one of Pasto’s master artisan workshops where she learnt the art of tamo inlaying. This straw marquetry technique involves cutting coloured barley straws into fine slivers to decorate wooden objects. Angélica’s creative drive soon transformed and revolutionised the traditional tamo patterns. Confident in her skills and potential, she founded her own atelier in 2016. Angélica now explores new applications of her craft in interior design and contemporary decorative objects.

Interview

©Tamo de Oro

©Tamo de Oro

Were you always a creative person?

When I was in school, I focused on craft and loved working with my hands. Despite my limited access to resources, my art teacher always encouraged me. I was skilled in embroidery and weaving, and that talent has truly flourished with tamo. I knew I was capable of learning it.

How did you introduce the curved designs to tamo work?

I introduced the curves now common in tamo while experimenting on a piece as an apprentice to Miguel De La Cruz. I thought I had ruined it, but realised that I discovered a new pattern form. The workshop embraced it and encouraged me to use this curved design for key exhibitions. Soon enough, others began replicating the technique.

How do you incorporate colour in your work?

I like working with a wide variety of colours and transitioning subtly between them. This is why I use various hues and very thinly cut straw. I try not to have abrupt mixtures. In doing so, I make sure there is always a natural, smooth flow of colours.

What inspires your designs and processes?

The patterns existing in my mind just flow to my hands. I sometimes use form templates if I am making special designs. My creations are inspired by Nariño’s rich culture and natural landscapes. The geometry is ancestral, inspired by the pre-Columbian cultures of the region, as is the spiral we call churo cósmico, which represents the flow of time.

Angélica Chiles is a master artisan: she began her career in 1996 and she started teaching in 1998

Works

©Tamo de Oro

©Tamo de Oro

©Tamo de Oro

Where