Huaje Art: From Oaxaca’s Roots to the World
🌿 The Meaning of the Huaje
🌿 The Meaning of the Huaje
The huaje (or guaje) is a native tree of southern Mexico. Its pods are used in food and medicine, but its story goes deeper. In Náhuatl, Huāxyacac means “at the nose of the huajes,” the name given to the land where these trees grew. Over time, that name became Oaxaca.
We chose the name Huaje Art because it represents roots, resilience, and identity — values we bring to every creation.
✨ How Huaje Art Started
Huaje Art was born from the desire to share Oaxaca’s artistry with the world. Today, the project is based in Orange County, California, but its heart remains in Teotitlán del Valle, a village world-renowned for its weaving traditions.
At the center of Huaje Art are two artists:
- Veronica Bautista – A dyer and weaver from Teotitlán del Valle. She is a master of natural pigments like indigo, cochineal, and marigold, bringing the land’s colors to life in textiles. Beyond her weaving, Veronica also curates unique artisan pieces, carefully selecting pottery, textiles, and handmade goods that represent Oaxaca’s cultural richness.
- Alejandro Mendoza – Her husband, a textile artist who travels between, the family’s weaving studio in Teotitlán and Orange County, CA. Alejandro bridges tradition and innovation, creating contemporary designs while honoring ancestral methods.
Together, Veronica and Alejandro carry forward the Zapotec weaving legacy in Oaxaca and abroad, ensuring this craft thrives for future generations.
🌎 What Huaje Art Brings to the World
Huaje Art is more than a brand—it’s a cultural bridge. From Oaxaca to Orange County, and into homes worldwide, we bring:
- Heritage – Ancestral weaving techniques preserved through generations.
- Sustainability – Wool and organic dyes that respect nature.
- Authenticity – One-of-a-kind rugs and curated pieces with real stories.
- Connection – A way for people everywhere to experience the spirit of Oaxaca.
When you welcome Huaje Art into your home, you’re not just decorating—you’re supporting Indigenous artists, protecting culture, and celebrating heritage.