January 16 - 30, 2027

OPEN CALL:

Textile Group Residency in Oaxaca, Mexico

Residency Program:

A two-week residency with 24/7 access to a fully equipped textile studio, designed for focused creation, cultural exchange, and immersive learning. Optional on-site accommodation is available in one of the studio rooms.

The first week introduces participants to local craft practices through curated visits to artisan communities that shape the Oaxacan textile landscape, balanced with time to rest, reflect, and work independently.

The second week is dedicated to focused studio practice, with the option to book additional specialized workshops at Texere, our studio home base.

The residency culminates in a final exhibition, where participants have the option to present the work they’ve created and engage with the local community.

If you’re an artist interested in exploring ancient textile techniques, immersing yourself in a rich culture, deeply rooted in artisanal craft while creating new work with intention and support, this residency is for you. 

This two-week program is designed for those looking to expand their practice, develop new skills, and connect with a like-minded international community. 

Overview:

Duration: January 16–30, 2027
Location: Texere, Santa María del Tule, Oaxaca, Mexico
Focus: Textile techniques, cultural immersion, studio practice
Includes: Workshops, studio access, final exhibition
Group size: 10 participants
Exhibition: January 29, 2027
Cost: from €1,500 - €2350*

*Funding: There are various institutions offering travel grants for artists. We recommend inquiring with your local cultural organizations for available funding opportunities. Click here to see a list of organisations that support artists with funding for residencies.

What is included?

What his trip includes:

  • Private airport or hotel pickup and drop-off

  • Full 24/7 access to Texere studio (looms, dye kitchen, library, and essential tools)

  • Access to the TEXERE materials shop, offering fabrics, local fibers, unique tools and more

  • Curated program of workshops, studio visits, and cultural excursions

  • Meals during organized program days

  • Final exhibition opportunity

  • Guidance, recommendations, and optional additional workshops

Additional expenses:

  • Flights

  • Accommodation (unless selecting on-site option) *

  • Meals outside scheduled program (~€10/day)

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Mandatory travel insurance

* Lodging is limited to 3 participants at Texere. Upon approval we will provide you with a list of places in Oaxaca that we are familiar with and that you can book independently according to your individual needs. Prices start at €30 a night or €450 for the full duration. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to hello@dortebundt.com

Detailed Itinerary

  • Arrival
    Arriving into Oaxaca in the late afternoon, you’ll be met at the airport or your hotel and brought to Texere, where our residency begins.

    As the evening settles in, we’ll gather for a welcome circle—an opportunity to meet one another, set intentions, and gently arrive into the rhythm of the days ahead.

    Afterward, we’ll share our first meal together: a thoughtfully prepared dinner by a private chef, marking the beginning of our time in community.

  • Tule & Texere

    This morning we’ll ease into our surroundings with an introduction to Santa María del Tule, wandering through local shops, cafés, and essential spots that will become part of daily life here.

    Back at Texere, we’ll gather for a studio and residency orientation, grounding ourselves in the space and the practices that will unfold over the coming days.

    In the afternoon, we’ll step into the world of natural dye, learning the ancient process of indigo with a local expert. Through hands-on exploration, you’ll begin to understand the alchemy of plant, pigment, and time.

  • Mitla

    We’ll head out early toward San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a place rich with history and layered landscapes.

    Our morning begins with a guided hike into the mountains, where caves hold stories of the region’s past and offer expansive views of the valleys below.

    After descending, we’ll gather for a relaxed group lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Zapotec archaeological site of Mitla, known for its intricate geometric stonework.

    In the afternoon, we’ll visit the studio of Arturo, a master weaver, who will share his process and deep knowledge of the craft.

    By early evening, we’ll return to Texere, with the option to be dropped in Oaxaca city for those who wish to spend the evening there.

  • Teotitlán del Valle

    Today we travel to Teotitlán del Valle, a neighboring Zapotec town renowned for its weaving traditions.

    We’ll spend the morning with Susy and her family, learning about natural dyes made from native plants and insects, followed by a weaving demonstration that brings these materials to life.

    Midday, we’ll share a homemade meal prepared by the family - a moment to slow down and process todays learnings.

    In the afternoon, we’ll visit the studio Fe y Lola before returning to Texere.

  • Embroidery Workshop

    We’ll journey to the home and studio of a local embroidery artist.

    Here, we’ll take part in an embroidery workshop, guided by our artist and local instructors, exploring intricate stitching techniques and personal expression through thread.

    We’ll pause for a picnic lunch in her garden, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the space.

    In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Texere or Oaxaca, depending on your preference.

  • Studio Day

    Today is devoted to your own creative practice. The studio is open for independent work, reflection, and experimentation.

    For those who wish, there will be an optional backstrap weaving workshop with our maestra Laura - an opportunity to deepen your connection to traditional techniques.

  • Studio Day

    Another full day to settle into your rhythm. Continue developing your work, revisit ideas sparked throughout the week, or simply take time to rest and absorb.

  • Sierra Norte (San Sebastián de Río Hondo)

    We’ll leave the valley behind and travel into the mountains of the Sierra Norte for a two-day retreat immersed in nature.

    During our time here, we’ll visit a local studio connected to Khadi Oaxaca and learn about organic cotton initiatives rooted in sustainability and heritage.

    We’ll gather for a spinning circle, working with malacate drop spindles and native heirloom cotton.

    There will also be time for personal work, rest, and connection with the landscape - alongside optional experiences such as a temazcal ceremony or yoga.

    We’ll return to Texere on the second day, carrying the stillness of the mountains with us.

  • These days are dedicated to deepening your practice.

    Spend time in the studio bringing your ideas into form, with optional workshops available - ranging from natural dyes to palm weaving and other local techniques.

    This is a space for focus, experimentation, and integration.

  • Exhibition Preparation

    As our time together begins to come full circle, the day is devoted to completing your artworks - bringing the pieces you’ve been developing throughout the residency into their final form.

    There will be space to refine details, resolve ideas, and prepare your work for presentation.

    In the afternoon, we’ll begin installing the exhibition, thoughtfully placing each piece and considering how the works speak to one another within the space.

  • Exhibition & Closing

    We’ll complete the final installation in the morning, refining the details and bringing everything into place.

    In the afternoon, we’ll open the exhibition to guests - sharing your work in a celebratory gathering with drinks and conversation.

    In the evening, we’ll come together one last time for a closing dinner, reflecting on all that has been created and experienced.

  • After breakfast, we’ll arrange transport to the airport or bus station for your onward journey.

    We’ll say goodbye feeling full, connected, and creatively recharged - carrying with us new friendships and a sense of community that will last well beyond our time together.

Schedule is subject to minor change. Residents will be notified if any changes occur.

Oaxaca

Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most culturally rich regions, known for its deep-rooted textile traditions, vibrant artisan communities, and diverse landscapes.

The area is home to numerous Indigenous cultures, including Zapotec and Mixtec communities, whose knowledge and craftsmanship continue to shape contemporary textile practices.

Spanish is widely spoken, alongside Indigenous languages such as Zapotec and Mixtec.

Studio Location + Transport

Transport:
Texere is located in Santa María del Tule, a small town located approximately 25 minutes from Oaxaca City. Buses, taxis, and shared transport options run frequently and are affordable. Participants will be introduced to local transport options at the beginning of the residency.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please complete the application form by May 15, 2026, 11:59pm CET.

We review all applications within one month. Selected applicants will be notified by June 15, 2026.

Once your application is accepted, we ask for a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total fee paid within one week to secure your spot on the residency. The remaining balance is due by November 1, 2026.

If you have any questions or need further assistance at any point during the application process, please contact us!

For more information, check our Terms & Conditions

We can’t wait to hear from you!

"My first residency at Texere in 2023 marked a pivotal point in my artistic journey. After eight years of working exclusively with a single textile technique and medium, I found myself immersed in a rich variety of forms, materials, and approaches - giving me a new lens through which to see my own practice. In the time since, I've allowed myself to explore techniques and fibers that were previously unknown to me, weaving them into my artistic language.

Thanks to the warmth of the Texere team and the thoughtful program crafted by Thread Caravan, I left with a widened horizon, a renewed sense of inspiration, and - most importantly - a full heart, new friendships, and a community I hadn't realized I'd been missing. It is a place I have returned to again and again ever since."

— DÖRTE BUNDT

Your hosts

Caitlin Ahern

THREAD CARAVAN FOUNDER + TEXERE CO-FOUNDER

This textile residency program was created by The Thread Caravan in 2021. Over the past decade, Thread Caravan and TEXERE founder Caitlin Garcia-Ahern has worked closely with artisan communities in Oaxaca, facilitating immersive learning experiences and creating programming that support the visibility and preservation of traditional craft practices.

The workshops and studio visits included in our residency programming will be facilitated by Caitlin and Thread Caravan’s long-term trusted and talented partners in Oaxaca. 

Ana-Cris Medina

TEXERE CO-FOUNDER

Ana-Cris is the director of Texere and an experienced weaver who collaborates closely with local artisans and brands, Texere provides both technical expertise and meaningful cultural connection. She is supported by her team, including Laura and Chuy, who assist throughout the residency.

Dörte Bundt

TEXTILE ARTIST + EDUCATOR

Dörte Bundt is a textile artist, educator, and community builder with over a decade of experience in textile education. Since her first residency with The Thread Caravan at Texere in 2023, she has returned regularly to Oaxaca, with her practice evolving through ongoing research and engagement with local textile traditions.

As co-organizer of this residency, Dörte oversees communication, coordination, and ensures a smooth and supportive experience for all participants.