Martín Pastoriza
Artisan & Owner
Raised in Tierra del Fuego, Martín Pastoriza, third generation of sheep breaders in the island, is the owner and artisan of Southern Looms. Martín's passion for wool has made him an expert in the weaving industry.
It is all based on his extensive experience in sheep breeding, selection of rams and mothers. His familiy's ranch is a renowned local producer of high quality Corriedale fibers.
During his youth, Martin was trained under the keen eye of his father, Carlos Pastoriza. Recently, Martín was selected and contracted as a qualified classifier working out of the shearing sheds of Tierra del Fuego island. His work ensured that wool was clearly classified at it's production point for it's finesse and quality.
Martin's creative vision was what motivated him to launch this fascinating craft business to combine creativity with his sheep and wool business knowledge.
Our Brand
Southern Looms from Sierra Nevada
In the early 70’s, my father, Carlos Pastoriza, acquired Estancia Sierra Nevada. Located in the pre Andean
area of Tierra del Fuego, this 20,000 acres ranch was founded in 1930 functioning as a saw mill and a sheep breeding establishment.
Our logo was inspired on the stall, the only original building that is still standing in the ranch. At present, Sierra Nevada acts as the summer grazing grounds of our Estancia Rio Apen, a cattle and sheep breeding farm. Throughout my childhood and youth, I used to visit Sierra Nevada every summer and would work the shearing season, moving livestock to and from it’s pastures. This extraordinary environment still thrills and inspires me each time I visit it.
Rio Apen's scenery excites my senses every time. Nature, sheep, the environment as a whole brings peace, joy and best memories to my mind. I wish to convey some of these feeling and share them with you through the unique pieces I weave.
From the most southern part of the world I hope I you receive our warmth and love for Patagonia.