The beauty of
Colombian art
100% FAIR TRADE Authentic Handmade Wayuu Mochila Bags
W
ayuus, also known as the
Guajiros, are the indigenous
people of the Guajira Peninsula
in the North of Colombia and the
Northwest of Venezuela. They have lived in
that region for hundreds of years and are
one of the few Latin American indigenous
people that have resisted European culture
and language. There has been mass
migration toward urban areas, which has
left the Guajira area and it's Wayuu people
among the poorest in Latin America.
The Wayuu have suffered from racism,
discrimination and violence for centuries,
and they need as much support as they can
get.
The Wayuu women that work in these
tribes are inspirational. Whilst working
long hours to hand produce these
beautiful, vibrant bags, they continue to
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look after their children and families. It is
the mother’s responsibility to educate the
Wayuu girls and hand down the complex
skill of making the bags, as well as the
traditional culture and way of life.
Each Wayuu Mochila Bag is completely
unique with a design that tells a story about
the Wayuu culture and history. To the
Wayuu people, this tradition is a symbol
of wisdom, intelligence and creativity. One
bag can take up to 2 months to create!
These days the Wayuu tribe rely on
their beautiful works of art as a way to
build financial support for their families,
meaning your contribution really makes a
difference.
A huge selection in various sizes and colours
are available from Marc2, Bath Street, St
Helier. Contact the team on 01534 870761