Meet the Makers: Guapi

After being forced to leave their homeland in the Guangüi Reserve due to violence, thirty indigenous Eperaara Siapidaara families arrived in Guapi. They formed a new community - one that focused on farming, fishing, and most notably, their the ancestral tradition of weaving with Chocolatillo and Paja Tetera fibres. As well as providing an income, this has been crucial in conserving their knowledge, traditions and craft for the future generations.

The Eperaara Siapidaara women are known for creating shapes and symbols typical of their culture and the Cuatro Tetas, literally translating as 'four breasts' are no different. The patterns used in the baskets are also a reflection of the world that surrounds them, such as constellations, jaguar spots, snakes, spiders and frogs.

The plants they use as their fibres, Chocolatillo and Paja Tetera, are usually found in crops. However, current climatic conditions have played a big impact. Now, Eperara men trek up to three hours into the forest to source them or buy the plants from other tribes. Only once the plants are carried back and left to dry for three days can the women begin weaving. Each basket is woven by just one artisan and takes a further eight to ten days to create.