Tania Leon
Tenangos Philly Founder
I am originally from the city of Tenango de Doria Hgo, Mexico. I am in love and proud of my town, its climate, traditions and culture. My mission is to make the 'Tenango' culture known. My goal is to support the group of artisans who rely on the handmade work of art; capturing experiences, culture and traditions on fabric.
Tenangos History
The Tenangos were born in the 60s due to the drought that occurred in the Otomi-Tepehua region of Mexico. Mrs. Josefina Tabera, originally from the community of San Nicolas is recognized as the founder of this craft. She was the first person to make a Tenango. Her drawings were inspired from the cave figures found in a natural 20 meter high stone, located on the side of the road between the municipality of Tenango de Doria and the community of San Nicolas Hgo, Mexico. This magnificent monument is called "EL CIRIO".gh stone.
Tenangos Philly History
Tenangos Philly was created during the pandemic. My husband lost his job and the circumstances made me start this wonderful project by first making and selling face-covering masks, garments and canvases for pictures. This idea was born by contacting artisans directly from the Otomi-Tepehua region located in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. It is an honor, and I am so proud to be able to present these handmade crafts by native Tenanguense artisans. My products are unique garments and accessories made with love and originally. By purchasing one of our products, you will not only be acquiring a unique garment but also support artisans and a family who rely on the income generated from each creation that is made, which is full of culture, traditions and experiences.
About our Products
These crafts are mostly made with different teams, highlighting the color and peculiarity of the drawings. There are people that draw, use embroidery and make garments. The Tenango is art drawn first by freehand on cotton cloth and then, embroidered by hand with the stitch called "crow's foot". This is embroidered with 6 strand cotton thread which it is first divided into 2 parts, leaving only 3 strands to be used. The creations are unique, coming from the imagination of the artist and the feelings of the embroiderer. The artisans play with the range of colors depending on their feelings. On the front of the embroidery, there is a beautiful crossed filling and on the back, you can only see the outline or border of the embroidered figures. In these beautiful works of art, the flora, fauna, culture, tradition and daily life of the people of the region are reflected.
Que siga el Arte - El Mercado Cultural
