Gunadule Nation: Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Textile Art
Who They Are
The Gunadule (also known as Guna) are Indigenous peoples from Abya Yala, the name they use for the American continent, meaning "land of vital blood" or "land in full maturity." With deep ancestral roots and a profound connection to Mother Earth (Nabgwana), the Gunadule people preserve their cultural wisdom through various forms of expression, most notably through their distinctive textile art known as molas.
The Art of Mola
The mola is more than decorative textile art—it's a sophisticated form of communication and cultural preservation. The word "mola" derives from the etymological root "momoll," meaning butterfly, symbolizing transformation.
Molas are handcrafted by Gunadule women who weave intricate, multilayered cotton fabrics with vibrant colors and geometric designs. Each mola tells a story, depicting elements of the cosmos, flora and fauna, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. The complex labyrinthine patterns represent the Gunadule worldview and their spiritual relationship with the Great Mother/Father Creator.
Traditional mola-making techniques include:
Hand-weaving cotton fabrics in square or rectangular shapes
Using natural dyes derived from plants like achiote (nisar), tree bark, crushed seeds, and river stones
Creating layered designs through careful cutting and stitching
Incorporating symbolic patterns that reflect their cosmic memory and relationship with Mother Earth
Our Partnership
Through our partnership with the Gunadule community, we offer authentic molas created by skilled Gunadule artisans. By purchasing these unique textile pieces, you directly support:
Preservation of Indigenous cultural heritage and traditional artistic practices
Economic sustainability for Gunadule women artisans and their families
Community-led social justice initiatives within the Gunadule Nation
Cross-cultural appreciation and understanding of Indigenous worldviews
Each mola represents thousands of years of wisdom, cultural memory, and artistic tradition. When you bring a mola into your home, you're not only acquiring a beautiful piece of art but also participating in the preservation and celebration of Indigenous knowledge and creativity.
Impact
Your purchase helps sustain traditional knowledge systems and provides economic opportunities for Gunadule women while honoring their ancestral connections to the land and cosmos. This partnership embodies our commitment to supporting Indigenous communities in maintaining their cultural practices and economic sovereignty.
Viewing Our Collection
The molas showcased on this page represent the available items in our collection. While online purchasing is not available, we invite you to visit our physical location to view these beautiful pieces in person and learn more about their cultural significance. Each piece is unique and tells its own story through intricate designs and vibrant colors.
For inquiries about specific pieces, pricing, or to arrange a viewing, please contact us directly.
For more information, go to Memoria Indigena here