Recovering oral memory of Mindalae Otavalo, a universal craftsman and trader

The Kichwa Association of Audiovisual Producers (APAK) from Imbabura (Ecuador), with the support of UNESCO’s Office in Quito, concluded its ethno-historical research process with the making of a documentary about the meaning of the handicraft trade for the identity of Kichwa Otavalo people.

Kichwa people are Ecuadorian skilled artisans and producers of textiles that keep alive the handicraft traditions of the mindalas, ancient indigenous elite specialized in the art of trade. This art brought Kichwa traders to travel around the world.

Photos: © Kichwa Association of Audiovisual Producers (APAK)