My second full day in Cusco, I had signed up for a weaving workshop, which I was very much looking forward to. However, at 5:00pm the night before, I got a message that the workshop was canceled because they didn’t have enough participants. ☹️

I had just spent the day traipsing around ancient ruins and I didn’t want another day of walking; or a 12-hour excursion. This workshop, right in Cusco, caught my eye. “Private painting workshop with wine and snacks.” 3 hours and you got to keep your project. Perfect.

I met Nohelia in the center square…it was going to be just the two of us. She asked if I minded lacking about 10 minutes to her studio…but didn’t tell me that the walk was all up hill, including an ancient pre-Incan road. I had to stop every few minutes to catch my breath (and admire the history, of course.) When we finally arrived, I felt like I’d run a marathon.

Everything was laid out and ready and Nohelia gave me my clay bull. In ancient Andean cosmology, it was believed that these bull-like figures could ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity and harmony to the community. These small bulls are an important part of Peruvian culture and are often associated with good luck, protection, and other positive attributes.

First I chose a base color (dark purple) and then several contrasting colors (gold, teal and white.) I was shown how to use the “mandala tools” to make designs and how to create a balanced piece. I wasn’t that great at it, but it was fun and Nohelia was able to cleverly “fix” any mistakes…blobs, streaks, weird lines and etc.

A large glass of red wine helped me stay on task. 😆

After the piece was dry, she wrapped it up and I carefully carried it back to my hotel. Here’s hoping I get my lucky bull back to the USA in one piece!