Photo: Valentina Thenoux para Rewilding Chile
Launch of a textile collection inspired by the biodiversity of Alerce Andino National Park
Under the brand “Correntoso, Forest Artisans”, a collective of weavers from communities near the protected area unveiled their final collection. This milestone is the result of a training program led by Fundación Rewilding Chile in collaboration with Fundación Artesanías de Chile.
Through a sensory exhibit inspired by the richness of the temperate rainforest, the artisans presented a diverse collection of hand-knitted textiles. The collection draws inspiration from the patterns of the iconic Puma Verde store, founded by Kristine and Douglas Tompkins in the 1990s, known for its classic, refined, and high-quality designs rooted in local vernacular traditions and the natural beauty of the region.
This exhibition marks the culmination of two years of work, focused on skill-building in areas such as developing a shared identity, technical weaving improvement, and strengthening knowledge in costs, marketing, social media, and brand creation. The overarching goal was to promote the commercialization of their products through various sales channels.
“This initiative aims to enhance the sense of community through traditional crafts deeply rooted in the territory, revitalizing them with a focus on identity, belonging, and income generation,” explained Carolina Oliva, Deputy Director of Fundación Artesanías de Chile’s Southern Branch, who also led the artisan group.
The launch of the “Tejiendo Bosques” (Weaving Forests) collection was well-attended, with representatives from arts and cultural organizations, tourism operators, CORFO, Indap, Conaf y Sercotec, and local authorities. The event also featured an inspiring address by Kristine Tompkins, President of the Board of Fundación Rewilding Chile.
“This initiative brings together culture and nature, offering significant contributions to the development of destinations linked to national parks. Tourists don’t just seek awe-inspiring landscapes; they also yearn to connect with the culture and traditions of a place”
“This initiative brings together culture and nature, offering significant contributions to the development of destinations linked to national parks. Tourists don’t just seek awe-inspiring landscapes; they also yearn to connect with the culture and traditions of a place,” said Carolina Cerda, Community Engagement Director at Fundación Rewilding Chile.
The exhibit will be open to the public from November 13 to 18 at the Fundación Artesanías de Chile store, located at Del Salvador #109, across from Plaza de Armas in Puerto Varas.
For more information about the work of the artisans from Alerce Andino National Park, follow their Instagram account: @correntosoartesanas.
