Introduction

I have visited and worked with the Wayuu peoples of northern Colombia and north-western Venezuela for over 12 years. They are both a welcoming and creative peoples, who are renowned for their vibrant weaving traditions. The Wayuu mochilas, sold here, are central to these traditions. One of the most import is the captivating myth – the tale of Waleker – which not only explains the origins of their craft but also shapes the values and identity of their community.

The Waleker Weaving Myth

According to Wayuu mythology, Waleker, the spider-woman, was the first weaver. The story tells us that she was an orphan, found in the wild by the hunter, Irunnu. For a while, the young woman hides her true identity from the hunter. But one night he spies on her and discovers that she transforms into a beautiful woman at night, who makes wonderful, woven designs (kanas) with threads that she draws from her mouth. From this moment, the Wayuu women became fascinated with her skills, and they watched and learned, imitating Waleker’s gestures until they mastered the art themselves. When Waleker's task is fulfilled she transforms into a spider and disappears.

Symbolism and Meaning

Weaving for the Wayuu, therefore, is a sacred act. Each kanas (design) carries meaning, drawing from the Wayuu’s cultural and social traditions. Patterns often depict animals, plants, and celestial symbols associated with the teachings of Waleker. The act of weaving is also considered a form of storytelling, a way of passing down knowledge and traditions from one generation to the next.

Waleker’s Legacy Today

The myth of Waleker continues to inspire Wayuu women, who see themselves as her descendants and protégées. By weaving, they honour her legacy and preserve their heritage in a modern world. Every mochila or hammock is not only a work of art but a living testament to the myth’s enduring power.

Collectors and admirers around the world seek out Wayuu textiles for their beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural depth. Yet, for the Wayuu, each piece is far more than an accessory; it is a thread connecting past, present, and future, spun with the spirit of Waleker herself.

The Bag You Buy

The myth of Waleker is a shining example of how stories shape cultures and inspire creativity. Through her teachings, the Wayuu have woven a legacy that celebrates both tradition and innovation. Every stitch tells a story, and every pattern pays homage to the mythic spider-woman whose artistry continues to enrich the world. However, this rich tradition is at risk as more and more unscrupulous buyers and sellers pressurize Wayuu weavers to make ever cheaper versions of Wayuu bags, while paying them less and less. At Akuaipa Artisans, we not only pay our Wayuu, totally independent, colleagues a fair price, we also reinvest 10% percent of our profits in educational projects that help safeguard the survival of Wayuu traditions. This includes using bilingual stories written by Wayuu writers to teach schoolchildren about the Waleker myth!