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Lina Roca

"I was born in Colombia on 8 January, 1957. I studied in Colombia, France, United States and Peru. I moved to Peru 18 years ago for my husband's work, and our lives became irrevocably anchored here. For the past 35 years, my life has been about alternating art with administrative work.

"The highland landscape of Peru motivates artists to create admirable pieces, as well as the search for their well-being. I try to transmit the beauty of the Peruvian sierra through my designs.

"I first got in touch with Andean artists through people who knew about the highland way of life. I was impressed by their work and envisioned the numerous possibilities to adapt their art with my designs. I met a group of women who had various needs, and we bonded immediately, so I just wanted to help them in some way. I decided the best way was to find a marketplace for their traditional products, and develop new ones through my designs.

"After working in Ayacucho for about a year, I decided to formalize my efforts into an organization designed to help women in extreme poverty, so they could increase their income and provide for their family. Our motto is 'Healthy Families, Prosperous Nation,' and we have become a great team. I tend to make the designs, and then they embroider them with extraordinary mastery.

"I feel the experience I gained from my previous work with international clothing brands has helped me a lot to better assist the women I am committed to help. The women from Ayacucho have shared with me their marvelous legacy with their embroideries, color combinations, and skills. It has been an enriching and learning experience.

"There was a difficult period in the beginning due to language differences, since most speak only Quechua. I had to earn their trust because I'm not from their region. Trust is earned by keeping your promises, and I have proven to them that I am true to my word.

"We made our first pieces in time for Christmas 2005, and then we made accessories for women and children. Now we're developing a home décor line, which has been well-accepted so far. Our experiences have been fulfilling and have taught us many things, we have achieved a higher degree of specialization, elected new group leaders and explored new lines.

"I have had to face many challenges in my life, such as political violence, economic crises, moving countries, etc. Now I work closely with over 600 women, and I try to find a place to exhibit the works we do in Peru and now abroad, with the idea of being able to offer more jobs to others.

"This type of textile art, Ayacucho embroideries, should be exhibited everywhere, even throughout Peru, because it remains relatively unknown. My work is about combining materials, all inspired by nature.

"I would like to tell Novica clients that when you purchase one of these items you are helping women from Ayacucho and other communities. Last year's sales helped many improve their houses and quality of life. Our goal this year is to create spaces for their children when they come with their mothers.

"We would like to thank you for looking at our work, which is replete with Andean love."