Dyed fibres drying in the Andalusian sun, tools hanging from whitewashed walls: Lekunoa’s workshop is a vibrant space where conversation, handwork and tradition intertwine. Her practice is not only about creating objects but also about sustaining a living craft tradition. Lekuona twists, knots, and coils the coarse fiber into sculptural forms, baskets, wall pieces, and textiles that retain the scent of sun-dried grass and the memory of ancient landscapes.
Through her art, Lekuona explores the dialogue between nature, tradition and modernity – seeking to reconnect communities with their cultural roots and the environment. She uses eco-friendly dyeing methods, manipulates natural fibres and experiments with forms and textures. In her hands esparto grass – an ancient Mediterranean fiber – turn into functional contemporary art.
© MaJose Calvente
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I am very lucky to live and work in Mijas, one of the most beautiful ‘White Villages’ in Andalusia. I have two workshops. One is located in the same town in a craft school/workshop/coworking area that I share with three other artisans (ceramics, flamenco dressmaking, jewelry and leather goods) and, the other workshop is in the countryside. That is where I develop the esparto dyeing processes.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
When I feel disconnected from nature, I like to go to the countryside, to the Alquería area and hike through the Sierra de Mijas. If I’m looking for a cultural diversion, my next destination is the capital Málaga, with its historic centre and the Albéniz Theatre, where films are shown in their original version.
© Olaf Tausch, Mijas 02, adjusted colors, CC BY 3.0
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
Currently, the main problem that particularly affects the region where I live is the infrequency of rain and therefore the scarcity of water. I think almost everyone is aware of this problem, but the possible solutions would have an impact on the tourism sector and the economy that benefits from this tourism.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
I will give an answer based on the area where I live. I believe that the increase in a type of tourism that only seeks sun, beach and golf is making the area become one of the many on the Costa del Sol and we forget about the cultural roots we have. On the other hand, it is true that there is an interest in attracting tourism with cultural concerns and that seeks nature and experiences typical of the area – gastronomic, cultural and artisanal.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
Mijas is declared an Area of Artisanal Interest, by the Junta de Andalucía, and is the only town in the province of Malaga with this distinction. That is why there are numerous artisan craft workshops of high quality in the region, such as:
– Angulo Ceramic Art (Ceramics)
– FatzzuDesign (Jewelry )
– Cristobal Angulo (Silversmith)
– María Jurado (Eco painting on silk)
– Liana´s Design (Leather)
– Costuras Calvente (Flamenco dressmaking)
– Mediterráneo Art (Wood painting)
There are many other workshops that I could recommend but the list would be enormous.
© Elegancia Barroca
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
If we talk about Malaga, what stands out is the increase in the number of museums and their quality. The city also has good connections to almost all European countries and other continents by plane. However, there has been a leap in quality regarding the gastronomic offer and the aesthetics of many of the establishments.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
First, I will start with Mijas, the restaurant offering is very good and varied but there is an authentic place that still keeps its Andalusian essence, it is Bar El Niño, in Mijas Pueblo. You can eat local dishes such as roasted eggplants with honey and at the same time enjoy a landscape of the Mijas countryside and the sea. But there are also new businesses run by young people from the town like Coffee Art where you can have a chai latte tea and enjoy professional photos taken by the owner on his travels. There is also a classic among local people: Blue Coffee Bike. They have a good selection in the menu of not very expensive dishes. Their Blue Bike salad and pumpkin risotto are exceptional.
Although there are many more to recommend, the last one I want to mention is La Bóveda Flamenca. It is not very large but it is located inside a cistern from the Muslim period and has a terrace with chairs and tables of a very characteristic blue that invites you to take a photo.
In Malaga capital there are a lot of offers in different varieties so it is difficult to choose from. But, I will name those that are original and that have been in operation for a long time or, on the contrary, are new. My favorite place is La Tetería San Agustín. There you will find a huge variety of different teas and homemade pastries, as well as an incredible atmosphere. Next to the Albéniz Theater is a vegan restaurant called La Alcazabilla with quality and delicious dishes. At Utopia Ramen, you can eat and see how they make your food, listen to a live DJ and also go with your canine pet.
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
Yes, in fact, there are several: both crafts and textiles. The Fatzzu Design and the Puerta del Ágora have products from local artisans. The Alpargatería Los Abuelos Espadrille offers nationally espadrille shoes. In Malaga, there are a few original vintage clothing stores, such as Península, CUDECA vintage, Flamingos, Oysters or Epoca.
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
For work I use Instagram and WhatsApp. For personal reasons Duolingo.
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
I am subscribed to several local and national newspapers – Mijas Comunicación, Diario Sur, El País… among others – and I get the news through their online platforms. On the other hand, I follow various cultural channels, especially those which are related to my archeology studies.
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
The issue is not as simple as it seems, but it would mean practising sustainable urban planning and enhancing the local economy. Encouraging different types of crops in fields and orchards will ensure the region’s food supply. In addition, the public transport network should be expanded so that the use of cars becomes unnecessary.
© Turismo de Mijas
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?
I would love to live in a traditional house in any of the mountains of northern Spain – Cantabria, Asturias or Euskadi.
© Courtesy of the artist
