Aaron & Macedonia

Macedonia Martinez is a gardener. She grows cochineal in her greenhouses. Cochineal, a tiny parasitic beetle that thrives on cactus, creates the vibrant reds, pinks, and purples that are so well known to Zapotec weaving. Her husband, Aaron, is inspired by the ancient caracol design. The caracol (snail) shape is found in archeological ruins near the village and is a traditional Zapotec rug pattern. His rugs play with this timeless pattern in new ways. Aaron has taught all four of his kids, both sons and daughters, to weave and they all carry on the work often weaving side by side at looms in their courtyard.