Ale Missene

The Creative Space of Ale Missene

Ale Missene is a Chilean artisan who creates work from the historic Los Dominicos artisans' village in Santiago, Chile. The sculptural figurine shown in the image, depicting a stylized female form in elegant attire, exemplifies the type of decorative art that might be found in this traditional crafts marketplace. Working within this culturally rich environment, Missene is part of a vibrant community of craftspeople and artists who maintain and develop Chile's artistic traditions.

 

Los Dominicos: The Cultural Context

Missene's workshop is situated in the Pueblito Los Dominicos, a significant heritage zone in Santiago with a rich history dating back to 1544 when the land was granted to female Spanish conquistador Inés de Suárez. This artisans' village, established in the late 1970s and early 1980s, occupies former farm buildings adapted into workshops and stores. The rustic, colonial-style adobe architecture provides a distinctive setting for artisans like Missene to create and sell their work, making it a popular destination for both Chilean and international visitors seeking authentic handcrafted items that reflect the country's cultural heritage.