Marta Turok

ethnologist

Marta Turok is a prominent Mexican ethnologist recognized for her work in preserving and documenting Indigenous traditions, particularly those of the Mixtec people. She has highlighted the significance of the dyeing techniques employed by the Mixtecs, which utilize ink extracted from the purpura snail, a practice that has been part of their culture for over 1,500 years. Her research emphasizes the cultural and historical importance of this craft, as well as the need for conservation efforts to protect both the artisans and the endangered snail species they rely on.