Why Ixil Collective?
Ixil [ee-sheel] Collective is a collaboration between Maya Ixil weavers and an American designer.
Because the Ixil region of Guatemala is far off the beaten tourist path, there is very little direct access to a market for artisans. Instead, artisans (primarily indigenous women) sell their wares for dismal prices to middlemen who then transport them to large markets in other parts of the country and turn a profit for themselves.
Ixil Collective was created to help these remote artisans earn a more substantial market share.
All designs are based on traditional Ixil dress and motifs and are made by Ixil artisans living in the towns of Chajul, Cotzal and Nebaj in the Quiché region of Guatemala.