Montijo artisan pursues livelihood through ceramic crafts

María del Viejo Serrano, creator of the brand Tara Cerámica, is working to establish a sustainable livelihood through artisanal ceramics in Montijo. Specializing in ceramic jewelry, decorative pieces, and utilitarian items made from high-temperature stoneware and porcelain, her work has evolved from a personal passion into a professional venture.

Alongside Lali, creator of Lalila Cerámica, Serrano operates the shared shop-workshop Alma de Cántaro. The space serves as both a retail outlet and an educational hub, offering ceramic workshops and group experiences for families, companies, and friends. These manual activities are often described by participants as therapeutic.

Despite the challenges of operating in a smaller municipality with a more limited market compared to larger cities like Badajoz, the demand for workshops suggests local interest in artisanal crafts. However, Serrano notes that making a living through craftsmanship remains difficult due to the low perceived value of handmade goods in provincial areas.