Omar Chávez Santiago

Omar Chávez Santiago (b. 1993, Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico) learned to weave at 8 years old, he is part of the fourth generation of weavers in his family – the youngest son of three. Through devoted study of heirloom knowledge, Omar is involved in all aspects of the creation of his pieces, exclusively dyeing his yarn using natural pigments derived from native wildlife such as Indigo, Marigold, and the Cochineal bug. Simultaneously continuing the tradition of weaving while breaking from it, Omar draws on his extensive knowledge of traditional techniques to work and develop ideas without the aid of a fixed pattern, instead envisioning the design of each rug as he weaves it. Omar takes inspiration from the beautiful landscape of Teotitlán del Valle, its eclectic cacti and readily available archeological sites, as well as his Zapotec heritage, in order to paint a picture in his mind. His work is based on experimentation in form and color, the freedom to create without inhibition is an essential element of his process. The curvy motifs of his Rio Grande rug evoke the strength and constancy of the ocean waves, as well as the mountainous range of his home, while his El Valle rug unifies different elements of the Oaxacan landscape to create a unique texture that conveys Zapotec motifs through a contemporary lens.

Omar graduated from Anáhuac University of Oaxaca with a degree in Industrial Engineering, an experience which prepared him to master the intricate and delicate processes inherent to his weaving practice. His philosophy is clear – create unique, innovative rugs that simultaneously honor tradition while transposing an authentic piece of history for contemporary contemplation. Omar seeks to convey harmony and freedom through his work, utilizing the innate balance of warp and weft to inspire new possibilities and perspectives.