Alagoas Artisan, 78, Preserves Traditional 'Renda Labirinto' Craft for Seven Decades
Maria Cícero Rosendo da Rocha, affectionately known as Dona Moça, is a 78-year-old artisan in Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas, who has dedicated seven decades to preserving the traditional 'Renda Labirinto' (labyrinth lace) craft. She learned the intricate technique from her mother in childhood and has since become a pivotal figure in its continuation. To ensure the survival of this artisanal practice, Dona Moça founded an association comprising 19 other women. Her significant contributions to the craft were recognized in 2021 when she was awarded the title of Master of Handicrafts and Living Heritage of Alagoas. The 'Renda Labirinto,' also called labyrinth embroidery or crivo, involves a meticulous process of de-threading fine fabrics like linen to create openwork patterns. Artisans then use needle and thread to fill these spaces with geometric and floral designs. Dona Moça expressed her commitment to the craft, stating, "I joined these women so that our art would not die, and it is alive today through the work we do in the association." She credits her mother, a strong woman, for her own strength and the skills she possesses, emphasizing her mother's fundamental influence on her life.
This narrative highlights the critical role of individual artisans in cultural heritage preservation, particularly for traditional crafts facing potential obsolescence. Dona Moça's initiative in forming an association demonstrates a sustainable model for knowledge transfer and community economic development, mitigating risks associated with single-person knowledge custodianship. The recognition she received underscores the societal value placed on such skills, yet the reliance on individual dedication and small associations points to systemic challenges in scaling preservation efforts and ensuring long-term economic viability for artisans in the face of globalized markets and evolving consumer preferences. Future strategies might involve leveraging digital platforms for wider dissemination and market access, alongside policy support for craft cooperatives.
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