Description
The pattern on this bag is called Pasatalo’ouya. It represents the guts of the cow. A traditional kanasü that represents an important animal for the community. For the Wayúu, wealth is measured by the number of animals owned by the family, with cows being the animals that denote the most wealth.
Deliciously crafted, using the one thread technique, this bag is a faithful representation of an ancestral pattern by artist Eleidis Epiayú, using the traditional Wayúu colours.
Kanasü or patterns, represent important cultural elements for the Wayúu, their traditions and their environment. Animals, nature, objects and concepts are depicted through the patterns.
Colors don’t have specific meanings for the Wayúu. However, as the bag is meant to capture a piece of the artist’s life, colors are associated with the state of mind. Bright colors are often used when the artist is feeling happy or satisfied.
The Plato or bottom, is different for every bag and Wayúu artists are known for not repeating platos. They represent dear aspects of the artist’s life, such as their family, emotions or dreams.
