Ana Oliver

Larsson Textil Design

Weaver

©Maddi Saez

Bags and scarves with Nordic roots

Ana uses natural yarns to weave her fabrics
She grew up surrounded by looms and weaving thanks to her mother
Swedish techniques and influences play a key role in her work

Ana Oliver initially learned everything about weaving from her Swedish mother, who had studied hand weaving and textile design in her home country and in Barcelona. "Since I was little, I have been connected to this craft but I had never considered pursuing it professionally. The world of looms was my great hobby and passion, but the idea of creating Larsson Textile Design came about almost unintentionally," she says. Ana opened her workshop in 2021. After finishing her degree in architecture and starting a professional career in this field, she realised that she greatly missed working with her hands. Ana began by taking commissions from friends and family. “Little by little, what started as a game has ended up becoming my way of life,” she adds. Ana explains that she finds inspiration in observing her surroundings, in the events of everyday life, as well as in the colours and textures of nature and architecture.

Interview

©Maddi Saez

©Maddi Saez

Why do you enjoy the slow pace of your profession so much?: I really enjoy working without rush and paying attention to every detail in the process. Additionally, I love the idea that every textile piece is unique. Handcrafting means that no two pieces can ever be identical, and I find that magical.
Is your technique tied to tradition?: I use traditional weaving techniques that have been known for centuries. Moreover, it is very important to me to work exclusively with natural yarns such as linen, wool or cotton. These materials have a special quality, texture and colour that more innovative materials simply do not offer.
Is it good to experiment before creating the final piece?: I think in any craft, a significant amount of time is spent experimenting before arriving at the final piece. But that time is not wasted. Many times, what starts as a failed prototype of one piece ends up, with time and some changes, becoming a completely different creation sooner or later.
Do you feel that, as a craftsperson, you have a responsibility towards the future of your craft?: I believe that today’s craftspeople are responsible for conveying our craft's importance. We are fortunate that major textile brands are embracing the tradition of handmade work again. A good way to preserve the craft is for artisans to collaborate with fashion houses. In this way, we give the craft greater visibility and recognition.

Ana Oliver is a rising star: she began her career in 2021 and she started teaching in 2021