Cooperative Cojolya
of Santiago Atitlán, Sololá
Founded in 1996 in the aftermath of the Guatemalan Civil War, Cojolya emerged as a response to the scarcity of work in Santiago Atitlán. Its mission is to provide fair, dignified employment to local artisans while also offering vital social support within the community. Today, Cojolya serves up to 40 artisans and their families, extending assistance in both healthcare and education.
The name “Cojolya” comes from the Tz’utujil language and means “between the waters,” a nod to the town’s location on the shores of Lake Atitlán. Santiago is especially known for its exquisite hand-embroidered huipiles—intricate works of art that can take up to four months to complete.
Shop Products By Cojolya
Nestled between three majestic volcanoes along the shores of Lake Atitlán, Santiago Atitlán is a place of rich tradition and breathtaking artistry. This piece is our tribute to the extraordinary textiles crafted and worn with pride in this vibrant community. The foundation of the traditional huipil from Santiago Atitlán is often a simple plaid, serving as a backdrop for intricate, hand-embroidered designs that adorn the entire garment.
Here, we highlight a precious pair of birds, a motif carefully brought to life by master embroidery artisans. With over 700 species of birds found in Guatemala, these embroidered designs reflect the country’s deep connection to nature, where birds symbolize freedom, beauty, and spiritual significance. A celebration of heritage and craftsmanship, this piece captures the spirit of a weaving tradition as vibrant and enduring as the landscape itself.
PRODUCTION TIME: 30 Hours