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Previously shown at Basel 2021.
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Description/
Totomoxtle is a new veneer developed using husks of heirloom Mexican corn. Ranging from deep purples to soft creams, Totomoxtle showcases the wealth of diversity of the native corns of Mexico which are naturally colourful and are essential for the rich gastronomy of the country.
But this project goes far beyond simply aesthetics. Totomoxtle focuses on regenerating traditional agricultural practices in Mexico and creating a new craft that generates income for impoverished farmers and promotes the preservation of biodiversity for future food security.
Unfortunately, the number of native varieties of Mexican corn are currently in sharp decline due to international trade agreements, aggressive use of herbicides and pesticides, and the influx of highly modified foreign seeds. The market now favours standardised features which can only be obtained with genetically modified and hybrid corns.
At the moment, the only hope for saving the heirloom species of maize lies with the indigenous people. They continue to plant them out of tradition rather than financial gain.
Solid wood with native corn husk marquetry.
Fernando Laposse
designer
Date/
2020
Color/
Black
Material/
Wood
Dimension/
60.0 x 20.0 x 60.0 cm (23.6 x 7.9 x 23.6 in)
Style/
Contemporary
Heritage/
Mexico
Ships from/
London