arpilleras

South American decorative arts

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

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Arpilleras are a form of South American folk art, particularly from Chile, created by women using fabric remnants stitched onto burlap. These textile collages often depict scenes of daily life, such as landscapes, markets, and village activities.12

The creation of arpilleras gained prominence in Chile following the 1970s military crackdown. Women used this art form to commemorate loved ones who were tortured, jailed, or disappeared by the regime. The technique combines elements of patchwork, appliqué, and embroidery to create vibrant and narrative pieces that reflect social and political realities.21

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Latin American art
Trends, c. 1970–present
…stitched on burlap, known as arpilleras (“burlaps”). Another form developed in the Central Andes, where tourist enthusiasm created a market for Indian textiles and portable wooden altars. In the Caribbean, tourists created a demand for Panamanian Kuna Indian molas, trade cloth panels decorated with cut-out patterns that express the Kuna…
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…stitched on burlap, known as arpilleras (“burlaps”). Another form developed in the Central Andes, where tourist enthusiasm created a market for Indian textiles and portable wooden altars. In the Caribbean, tourists created a demand for Panamanian Kuna Indian molas, trade cloth panels decorated with cut-out patterns that express the Kuna…
Read More

appliqué
Arpilleras are made in several South American countries; landscapes, markets, village life, nature scenes, and other subjects are depicted in collages that combine patchwork, appliqué, and embroidery. The Kuba of the Democratic Republic of the Congo use appliqué and embroidery to decorate raffia-cloth skirts and…
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Arpilleras are made in several South American countries; landscapes, markets, village life, nature scenes, and other subjects are depicted in collages that combine patchwork, appliqué, and embroidery. The Kuba of the Democratic Republic of the Congo use appliqué and embroidery to decorate raffia-cloth skirts and…
Read More