The Art that Conserves the Dry Forest

The La Libertad Dry Forest Project aims to restore and conserve one of the region’s most important ecosystems: the dry forest of Pacasmayo. Through this initiative, the project works to protect over 1,350 hectares of this valuable forest, which has been affected by human activity, while promoting sustainable practices with local communities.

In this context, the project’s artisans have found a space where their art not only honors the flora and fauna of the dry forest but also incorporates traditional patterns from the local culture. Over several months, they have participated in workshops that have allowed them to blend their ancestral knowledge with new skills, creating pieces that reflect the natural and cultural richness of their environment.

Each crafted piece is a vibrant representation of the nature surrounding them, while also incorporating traditional patterns that tell stories of their community. The designs, inspired by both the biodiversity of the forest and the local cultural identity, serve as a reminder of the deep connection these women have with their land, history, and roots.

What’s most special about these workshops is that they have not only been a space for learning and creativity but also a place of tranquility and support for the women in the community. Here, they have found a space to share experiences, empower each other, and build a support network. Thus, the workshop becomes much more than a creative space—it is also a place for connection, growth, and empowerment.

Lady from the artisan club showing her creation (September, 2025)

Through their crafts, the women are not only generating sustainable income but also promoting the conservation of the dry forest. By incorporating natural and cultural elements into their creations, they are becoming guardians of their heritage, spreading their message of protection and respect for nature to new audiences.

The Bosque Seco Project demonstrates how art, nature, and community can come together to build a more sustainable future, where environmental preservation and the empowerment of people go hand in hand.

Handicraft Workshops Foster Sustainability

A Rocha Peru organized handicraft workshops for the local women’s artisan group in Pacasmayo.  The workshops focused on using renewable materials, promoting environmental awareness, and providing alternative sources of income. By linking traditional crafts to the health of the forest, these workshops encourage environmental stewardship and highlight the importance of sustainable resource management.

In August, the team organized two workshops for the Artisan Group. The first workshop introduced participants to the art of embroidering jute, a natural fiber, using designs inspired by the Moche culture.  The Moche culture is an ancient civilization from northern Peru renowned for its intricate art and iconography. Seven participants took part in this training, led by jute embroidery specialist. The session included an additional hands-on experience in Magdalena de Cao, located in the province of Ascope, to further enhance their skills.

Jute embroidery, August 2024

 

A second workshop focused on the recycling, reuse, and proper disposal of plastic bags. This session was led by an expert in plastic reuse, and was attended by 12 participants. The training emphasized practical ways to reduce plastic waste and creatively repurpose materials, reinforcing the community’s commitment to sustainability.  In September, a follow-up session took place in Magdalena de Cao.   Participants completed their jute embroidery projects featuring designs inspired by Moche culture. The craftswomen also visited a museum in Magdalena de Cao.  Here the women took part in an event that focused on crafts and culture. Afterwards, they received a guided tour of the museum’s exhibits, gaining further insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

These efforts are part of a broader initiative to create environmentally conscious community leaders who understand the value of conserving natural resources. By empowering the women of Pacasmayo with these skills, A Rocha Peru aims to foster greater economic resilience and promote the conservation of forest resources.