In the high-altitude Andean community of Huacahuasi, Peru, textiles are far more than vibrant adornments—they are living archives of history, lineage, and community resilience. This August, Richmond audiences are invited to experience this rich heritage through a striking visual journey. Sisters Project Peru, a Richmond-rooted nonprofit initiative operating under FNE International, presents “Woven in Color,” the organization’s inaugural documentary photography exhibition.
Hosted at the Weinstein JCC (5403 Monument Ave., Richmond), the exhibition runs through September 4, highlighted by an opening reception on Thursday, August 27, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
Art with Purpose: The Road to a Community Health Clinic
Situated in the Sacred Valley, Huacahuasi sits over 12,000 feet above sea level. While celebrated for its traditional weaving traditions and breathtaking landscapes, the village faces severe systemic health disparities. Over 21% of local children suffer from chronic anemia, malnutrition remains widespread, and basic medical care currently requires a grueling three-hour trek across rugged mountain terrain.
“Woven in Color” bridges the gap between Richmond and the Andes by pairing documentary photography with an urgent humanitarian mission: funding the construction of Huacahuasi’s first dedicated, Level 1–2 community health clinic. Working in partnership with Peruvian grassroots leaders and local healthcare authorities, Sisters Project Peru is ensuring the clinic will be fully integrated with Indigenous community leadership and traditional cultural knowledge.
The Power of the Lens
The exhibition highlights intimate portraits, sweeping Andean vistas, and intricate textile craftsmanship. Every framed print on display tells a story of everyday triumph, labor, and celebration—and every photograph purchased directly funds clinic building materials, medical supplies, and staffing infrastructure.
Visitors will experience:
- Visual Storytelling: Unfiltered documentary frames capturing the daily rhythms, celebrations, and enduring spirit of Huacahuasi.
- Textile Heritage: An exploration of Andean weaving techniques, showcasing how color and pattern reflect generational identity.
- Direct Impact: The opportunity to acquire original framed prints with 100% of proceeds fueling clinic development.
Event Details & Media Access
- Event: Woven in Color Photo Exhibition & Opening Reception
- Date & Time: Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Exhibition Dates: On view through September 4
- Location: Weinstein JCC, 5403 Monument Ave., Richmond, VA
- Admission: Free
Sisters Project Peru welcomes local storytellers, journalists, and visual artists to join its extended media team. For interview requests with the Richmond organizing team, participating photographers, and Peruvian community liaisons, or to receive high-resolution press assets, contact sistersprojectperu@fneinternational.org. (Note: Permission must be obtained prior to reproducing exhibited works).
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