Vanishing Worlds: Gilberto Granja’s Barniz de Pasto

While in Colombia, I had the opportunity to visit Gilberto Granja’s workshop in the mountain city of Pasto. Gilberto and his son Oscar are prominent Barnizadors in their community - masters of the traditional Barniz de Pasto art form that has existed since Incan times.

Barniz de Pasto uses natural varnish, typically applied to handmade wood dishes, plates, and more. The Barnizadors often work with traditional woodworkers in the area (keep an eye out for content on one of these woodworkers, coming soon!)

We hope to have Gilberto and Oscar’s work available in late 2023.