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Maritza and Rosio

"I'm Maritza Castañeda Chirinos and I was born in Lima on August 13, 1959. My father is a retired professor but, for many years, he created decorative pieces in wrought iron – candleholders, lamps and other designs. At the University of Lima, I majored in accounting. But I think I inherited my father's desire to create something with my hands.

"I'd describe my art as textile works in cotton. Most of it is handmade and I use a sewing machine only to put together the doll's body. All the complementary work is done by hand. The hats are crafted by hat makers in Puna who create tiny hats for me that are identical to their large designs.

"I began creating dolls in 2005 along with my friend Rosío. We both want to preserve Peru's regional traditions. Our first collection is dedicated to Puno. We try to transmit the happiness we feel on creating themes that are authentically Peruvian. We want the rest of the world to become acquainted with our ethnic groups and folklore.

"I got started in the world of handicrafts by chance. A friend invited me to take up the craft and I never imagined the satisfaction I'd feel when I saw my finished work. When we first exhibited our dolls, a man from Puno came up to talk with us. He really liked our work. When he found out that I made the dolls, he challenged me to speak with him in the Aymara language. Unfortunately, I couldn't, but it was great to know that our dolls reach people.

"My greatest challenge has been to find the accessories that complement our dolls, such as hats, little spoons and baskets. It was so satisfying to meet artisans who would craft this kind of items. I have two sons. The younger likes my work and wants to become involved with my art. I like this and it makes me work even harder.

"My dolls express our love for Peru, its customs and its people. I hope these traditions are never lost because this is what distinguishes us from the rest of the world."

Rosío speaks.

"I'm Rosío Fernandini Rojas. I was born in Lima on May 16, 1959. I studied economy at the Universidad de San Martín de Porres. I'm married and we have a son.

"This art is wonderful. I took courses in handicrafts using techniques known as 'country' and 'soft.' Our work tries to give a different connotation to a textile art and has become an ongoing project.

"Being able to transmit what I've observed on my many travels throughout Peru motivates me. We began with the region of Puno to pay tribute to the women there who work so hard and keep their customs. I want people to become aware of how these women take care of their daily chores and never lose their optimism and coquettishness. They usually sit or kneel on the ground to do their chores, and this is why our dolls have no legs.

"I've always been fascinated with the ability and skill of our artisans. They are versatile and creative. I attended many exhibits and became interested in the crafting processes. When I had the opportunity to study handicrafts, the first thing I thought of was these wonderful women and their stories. I wanted to bring this to my art.

"At first, when Maritza and I were planning this project, we never thought our work would express our ideas so well. When we finished our first doll, we named her Asuntita, a very common Aymara name.

"I believe I am doing what I love and, little by little, achieving things that satisfy me and make me happy. Even though we don't have a lot of capital, our workshop has taken shape and this makes us so proud. It encourages us to move ahead. Showing our work and seeing how people like it feels really good.

"I'm so happy our dolls will be on display with Novica because you'll have the opportunity to get to know a little more about the people of Peru."