Craftsmanship for a cause

• • Pilar knits banana fibre in crochet, tricot, embroidery and lace techniques
• • She has an artistic family heritage and Brazilian ancestry
• • A strong social conscience characterises her work

Pilar Ureña Escariz’s mind, in constant musing, stops for a moment to contemplate the roads that have led her to craftsmanship. A chain of synchronised events opened the doors to creative opportunities for her. Pilar journeyed from philosophy, cultural and social projects to a career in International Cooperation in Macaronesia. It was in the Canary Islands and Cabo Verde, which are both abundant in banana plantations, that she discovered the versatility of banana fibre. She still researches and explores its many textile applications using a variety of needlework techniques today. Pilar has worked banana fibre since 2017 for interior décor, architectural lining projects and fashion accessories and is actively involved in social projects to teach her techniques to local communities seeking other options to strengthen their economies.