Hands and my Heritage by Samantha

Hands and my Heritage by Samantha - September 2024 Scholarship Essay

Through a non-traditional method of learning, I have discovered a profound passion for preserving my family's cultural heritage through the art of cloth embroidery. This beautiful tradition has been passed down through the generations in my family, and I have taken it upon myself to learn and carry it forward.
Outside of school, I have been immersing myself in the art of cloth embroidery. This unique form of learning has been a blend of teachings from my mother, personal exploration, and utilizing online resources like YouTube. By observing the intricate designs on Mexican tablecloths and seeking inspiration from family friends' embroidered and knitted patterns, I have been able to expand my skills and understanding of this art form. My journey has been marked by countless hours of trial and error, and through this perseverance, I have honed my embroidery technique.
Furthermore, my learning experience took a meaningful turn when I had the opportunity to visit my family's hometown in rural south Mexico during the summer of 2021. There, I delved deep into the history and significance of embroidered cloth, learning directly from my aunt and experiencing firsthand the storytelling embedded in each intricately embroidered piece. I traveled to other cities in hopes of seeing more diverse cultures and the complexity of design.
The art of cloth embroidery has become my non-traditional way of learning, a pathway that is deeply personal, culturally enriching, and filled with familial connections. As I continue to perfect my embroidery skills, I am also unwrapping the stories and history woven into each stitch, creating an unbreakable bond between my hands and my heritage.