Walmaria Caldas came from Brazil, where she grew up on farm with her family, watching local artisans weave, sew, embroider, and craft useful objects. She graduated from the University of Minas Gerais in Brazil with a BA in History. Even though a life of exploration has taken her away from her roots, she maintains a deep connection with the sustainable life style, and is passionate about teaching children to create what is in their minds. She has her own business as a textile artist (Minas Design) in Berkeley, and has been working with children in the Bay Area for many years.