Who we are
This is a Colombian-owned, Small Business.
I was born in Ibague, Tolima, in Colombia. Tolima means, land of snow in the native Pijao language of the region. As a child, I remember seeing the Nevada del Tolima (The Snowed-one of Tolima) on the way to school, a volcano that watches the city gently like a wise ancestor. As a kid, I bathed and practiced swimming in the waters of Combeima river, which are fed by the high alpine paramo ecosystems that create rivers and drinking water for more than 70% of Colombians. I played with the rhino beetles that would fly into my classroom, and tickled the Mimosa pudica plants that would hide when touched. These were some of my first memories of the land that saw me take my first steps.
Due to violence and insecurity, my family moved to Turtle Island (United States). Despite growing up in the U.S I continue to honor my roots, my ancestors, and my homeland.
This brand is a love letter to the land, and homage to the Andean mountain ridges and valleys in Tolima and Cundinamarca my ancestors have always called home. I hope with this brand to share my own weavings and art, and support Colombian artisans.
Enjoying a waterfall at my uncle’s farm
Swimming and eating with my cousins and family by Combeima River
The mountain ridge north of Ibague
Learning to weave on a horizontal loom
What does our logo and name represent?
Grandfather River arises from the examination of land and water as an ancestor and as teacher. The brand name was inspired by my grandfather who grew up playing, fishing, and working on the Magdalena River and after his death his wish to return to be with the river was granted by his family. The long-haired man represents two things- First myself: my long hair, my affinity to water (and it’s teachings), and my conservation work with wetland and marine ecosystems. It also represents the emblematic Tolimense archetype of the Mohán, a spiritual guide associated with the water and rivers. It is an ode to water and land protectors, and wise elders.. those who came before me, those who are becoming, and those that will be.
Contact us
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