Clara Polanco x OUTLIERS
MEET clara
I am an enthusiast of natural fibers, artisanal processes and textile self-sufficiency. That's why I have opened Donde Clara in Mexico City, a timeless haberdashery, where each object is carefully selected to awaken the imagination and nurture the creative process. Here, one is immersed in a cozy atmosphere, surrounded by a vast array of naturally sourced materials and tools, such as native cottons, handspun silks, handmade papers, natural waxes, wools, natural dyes in bulk and many more things to make things.
But Donde Clara is not just a charming store; it is a dynamic space where magic happens. Regular workshops and meetings bring creative people together, giving them the opportunity to learn, discover and reflect on the materials, tools and processes involved in artistic creation. Here, it is understood that materials are not just inert objects, but components of complex historical, economic and socio-political narratives.
Donde Clara seeks to weave a community committed to creative autonomy and a critical look at the tools and materials we use.
MEMORABLE TRIPS
LETICIA, COLOMBIAN AMAZON — I had an amazing textile experience, getting to know local communities and learning their techniques. The trip was organized by Puntos de Conexión.
TORRES DEL PAINE, CHILE — It was really cool to be in such a different, arid landscape, one not typically described as lush, yet at the same time very imposing.
BWINDI, UGANDA — Bwindi was just wild: being so close to the silverbacks, then every afternoon walking into the jungle and listening to the monkeys’ calls…
In all three places there’s a sense of being wrapped in an incredibly powerful nature that demands your full attention and presence.
FAVOURITE stays
Punta Pájaros — Puerto Escondido
Le Pirate Explorer — Komodo , Indonesia
Refugio Terrazas de la Tierra — San José del Pacífico, Oaxaca
Salkantay Trek — Perú
Punta Pájaros
Beautiful architecture that makes you feel very connected to your surroundings, very secluded beach.
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Le Pirate Explorer
Amazing boat experience around Komodo National Park. I was lucky to get an amazing crew and group of people, we hiked, ate great and saw beautiful sunrises.
Flores, Indonesia
Refugio Terrazas de la tierra
Beautiful earth buildings, amazing trek trails, home-made vegan food from their vegetable garden, an interior design inspiration. Very modest beds.
San José del Pacífico, Mexico
Salkantay trek
A very special experience, meditative state through 5 days of walking, beautiful spots, very modest accommodation.
TRAVEL WISH LIST
BHUTAN — I’m very interested in seeing the completely different tourism model they have there. The idea that they truly value the well-being of their people. I believe the landscapes are unlike anything else, and the culture is very unique.
LAOS — There are so many craft initiatives, native cottons and hand-spinning projects that really fascinate me.
JAPAN — For the emphasis they place on craftsmanship and the various techniques I could learn. I have a friend who’s a spinner and would show me around, and I’m especially keen to learn about banana fiber, mangrove dyeing, and indigo dyeing.
More travel recommendations by people we admire here.