Luis Miguel de la Cruz Rivera

Woodworker

©Artesanías de Colombia

The tamo maker

Luis Miguel is one of the most renowned tamo artists in Pasto
His technique started with a trial and error methodology
He also masters leatherworking

Luis Miguel de la Cruz is the first one in his family to become an artisan. He started his artisan career by working with wood, in crafts such as carving and carpentry. Then he began working in his brother-in-law’s leather workshop. After several years, he got together with his brother and they started selling leather products, which made him famous. Finally, his creativity and passion for craft led him to start experimenting, testing and improving the application of the tamo (wheat stems) technique. With new applications of colours and refined designs, he works every day in order to create elegant and unique products. Luis won the Medal for Artisanal Mastery in 2006 and Master of Masters prize in 2014.

Interview

©Artesanías de Colombia

©Artesanías de Colombia

When and how did you actually start?: I first worked as a carpenter and carver. After several years working with tamo (wheat stems), I noticed that the designs made with this fibre were so basic, that there was room for creativity and new interpretations.
Do you train apprentices?: With my new designs, I've created a trend. Many people in Pasto started following my ideas and experiments. I have taught fellow artisans, knowing that they would have been able to pursue their own careers and open their own workshops. Also, I teach my children: I trust they will continue my legacy.
How did you create your specific technique?: I started working with a trial and error methodology. I made different drawings, and after many mistakes, finally my apprentices and I created an innovative product which reflects Pasto’s landscapes. I also expanded the colour palette.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: Although I was the first to innovate tamo’s colours, now I work with plain and sober colours and the natural brightness of this fibre. I don’t mix textures or designs, aiming for a clean and elegant outcome.

Luis Miguel de la Cruz Rivera is a master artisan: he began his career in 1994 and he started teaching in 1994