
HEART of Saguache’s San Luis Valley Colcha Embroidery Project joined the Town of Saguache’s Historic Preservation Commission at the 2025 Saving Places Conference, held at Cheyenne Mountain Resort from February 29–March 1, presented by Colorado Preservation Inc. Embracing this year’s theme of intangible heritage, colcha embroidery artists Adrienne Garbini, Aurora Martinez, Trent Segura, Sandra Ortega, and Judy Vigil collaborated on a presentation highlighting the art’s role in preserving local history, landscapes, and personal narratives.
In addition to the discussion, artist Donna Madrid Hernandez led a hands-on demonstration, allowing attendees to learn the colcha stitch firsthand. This interactive session, along with contributions from artist Sandy Dolak showcased the ongoing revival and evolution of this regional art form. As colcha embroidery continues to connect generations and communities, its presence at the Saving Places Conference emphasized the importance of preserving not just physical landmarks, but also the rich cultural traditions that define the identity of the San Luis Valley.
Comments