The social importance of craftsmanship is increasingly recognized as it is associated with concepts such as the fundamental role of traditional knowledge, the preservation of cultural diversity and the central place of creativity as a factor of human development.
People often perceive indigenous groups as a collection of folklore and archaic features typical of a culture that remains immobile in time. From the collaborations we have with Wayuu in Colombia and Gunas in Panama, it turns out that instead they are very aware of living in a time that is not at static, but is traversed by changes and transformations, without renouncing their identity.
Change includes the idea of development, because, like all human beings, they also aspire to improve their living conditions without damaging the balance of the environment.
What does knowledge associated to craftmanship mean?
It means doing things well, enhancing beauty, uniqueness and history.
This is what DESDE EL SUR CON AMOR wants to promote through the network of artisans established in Latin America, particularly in Panama, Peru, Colombia, Mexico.
DESDE EL SUR CON AMOR not only promotes handmade products, but also values the connection of the world of artisans with various aspects of social, economic and cultural life.
So speaks Cecilia, Wayuu weaver master. For Wayuu women, the art of weaving contains the memory of their land and culture.
Gunas Artisanas
Guna Yala is a region located in the Panamanian Caribbean that is made up of some 300 small islands. From here come Mrs. Vicky and her family, a Guna ethnic group, who create for DESDE EL SUR CON AMOR bead earrings with symbols of their culture.
Wayuu weavers
The Wayuu are an indigenous group that inhabits the Guajira peninsula, the most northeastern part of Colombia.
Weaving is one of the main skills and charms of this ethnic group: chinchorros (a kind of hammock), backpacks, bags, blankets and handles with different designs and colors captivate the eyes of the Arijunas (as they call those who belong to their community) in every place where they are exhibited.
For them, especially for women, this activity symbolizes something beyond a source of income or economic sustenance. It is related to the essence and vision of the Wayuu woman and her descendants.
Mexican crafts
There is a small workshop in Mexico where Mrs. Concepción and her family create our sacred hearts that are decorations for the wall. We do not give indications about colors or decorations, because we want to leave total freedom during this creative process that is transmitted from generation to generation.
