The Woodworkers of Guadalupe

our artisans

Location

Guadalupe is a small, peaceful town tucked into the gentle hills of Lara, in western Venezuela, within the state of Lara. It rests in a tropical landscape softened by elevation, where warm breezes move through fields and quiet rural roads. The town feels like a calm pause in the middle of the countryside — a place where life slows down, where sunsets stretch long across the hills, and where community and tradition shape everyday moments. Surrounded by nature and open skies, Guadalupe carries the charm of the Venezuelan interior: simple, welcoming, and full of the quiet beauty found far from the rush of the big cities.

History

The wood-craft tradition in Guadalupe -Lara- in Venezuela emerged from the region’s rich supply of local hardwoods. Over decades artisans carved everyday furniture and utensils, gradually refining their skills into detailed figurines, trays, and decorative objects. As the craft gained recognition beyond the town, it became a key part of Guadalupe’s identity and economy.

Materials

Local hardwoods from about ten tree species are carefully selected for their colour, grain, and workability, giving each handcrafted piece its own character. These woods offer a natural palette — from reddish and yellowish tones to deep purples and dark browns — allowing artisans to create objects whose decorative richness comes directly from the beauty of the material itself.

The Process

Artisans in Guadalupe begin by selecting seasoned local hardwood, choosing pieces with the right density and natural colour for the item they plan to create. The wood is then roughly cut to shape and gradually refined using hand tools like saws, chisels, and knives to form the structure and details. Once the main shape is complete, the piece is carefully sanded to achieve a smooth surface that enhances the wood’s natural grain. Finally, artisans apply oils, waxes, or clear sealants that protect the piece and bring out the richness of its colours, resulting in durable handcrafted objects that highlight both skilled technique and the beauty of the local materials.

The Embera Katio Today

Today, the wood crafts of Guadalupe continue to shine as a living symbol of tradition and talent. Their pieces travel to other countries, where people admire the artisans’ skill and the natural beauty of the local woods. Each creation is born from respect for the environment and from an art passed down through generations, with craftsmanship so detailed that it turns wood into art carrying the soul of Guadalupe wherever it goes.

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