PUSHKA WARMI: SPINNING CONTEST IN SANTA CATALINA, JUJUY, ARGENTINA

Abstract

This work reflects the response, in the form of joint work, to a demand from the Community Council of the People of Santa Catalina, Jujuy, Argentina. The activities originate from the perception of cultural erosion in issues related to herding and management of llamas and artisanal spinning and weaving llama fiber. That is why we decided to organize the spinning contest that is described in this work. Known as Pushka Warmi (spinning woman in the Quechua language), in future editions, it should have a name change since men have registered. The contest was a success and showed that there is still knowledge regarding yarn that experiences like this make it visible. It is essential to sustain these initiatives, especially with children and young people, in order to increase and prevent the erosion of this valuable component of the Andean biocultural heritage, llama fiber spinning.