Ana Isabel Fonseca Miguel

PHOLCIDAE textile atelier

Weaver

©Isabel Hernández

Isabel Hernandez©PHOLCIDAE textile atelier®

A natural approach

Ana Isabel's textiles combine different colours and textures
Her technique is based on the low-warp loom
Her work is influenced by her geographical environment

Ana Isabel Fonseca Miguel's first experience of textiles was during her childhood when she learned the techniques of cutting, sewing, knitting and crochet. A few years ago she started her professional practice with the basic technique of the low-warp loom, thanks to her mentor, Ana Castro Borja. Since then, she has been practically self-taught. Her workshop, which opened in 2020, is recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism. Her work is influenced not only by the region she lives in but also by the cultural legacy that accompanies her. For her, a quality artisanal product is an alternative to an industrial product and the key to success is to enjoy both the design and the weaving.

Interview

©Isabel Hernández

©Isabel Hernández

How do you relate to your work?: I understand my work as a process of creation. Like any creator, the design and preparation of the work, the choice of components and inspiration are the starting elements. The final result is a unique hallmark of the brand.
What do you enjoy most about your work?: I enjoy the whole process of creating a piece, from the design work based on recent inspiration or one that I have stored somewhere in the workshop or my memory. I also enjoy the effort and concentration it requires and the constant testing of creativity.
What are your particular influences?: The elements of inspiration that are presented individually or in a collage, realistic or impressionistic are related to a theme, and help me to elaborate the visual essence of the project I want to realise. I am a great observer of the environment and its changes.
Are there any secrets behind your craft?: The yarns, when they are natural, are selected for their natural properties and processed and dyed sustainably with natural dyes. When they are of animal origin, they are chosen from extensive livestock farming, which implies respectful care of the animals in the wild.

Ana Isabel Fonseca Miguel is a rising star: she began her career in 2017