Women and girls of Iskonawa Community in Calleria. Image by Victoria Carlos. Peru, 2022
Iskonawa Culture
A Cultural Renaissance
The Iskonawa women are at the forefront of a remarkable cultural revival. After years of living alongside the Shipibo people and adopting many of their practices, the Iskonawa have consciously embarked on a journey to reclaim their identity and heritage. With the guidance of their elders, they have worked diligently to restore community memory and share their unique stories through vibrant, painted fabrics. While they may appear as abstract geometric patterns to the untrained eye, these designs are deeply rooted in Iskonawa cosmology and history.
Celebrating Sacred Spaces: Cono Hill
Central to Iskonawa culture is the Cono Hill, or Roe Biri, a small mountain that rises majestically in the tropical forest. This sacred site embodies the origins of the Iskonawa people. Though physically distanced from their ancestral lands, the Iskonawa remain connected to this sacred space, which is often reflected in their textiles. Each fabric serves as a homage to their ancestors, a powerful statement of cultural identity amidst a rapidly changing world.
Reviving Heritage: A Collaborative Journey with Neyra Pérez
A Collection Inspired by History
An inspiring collaboration with Neyra Pérez, an artist from the Amazonian Iskonawa people, we delve into the profound cultural narratives woven into her stunning fabrics. Each piece crafted by Neyra is not just an artwork; it's a testament to the resilience and beauty of her heritage.
Motivated by the rich cultural heritage portrayed in Neyra’s works, you have developed a new collection that captures the essence of the Cono Hill, both in its aesthetic and its story. This collection pays tribute to the efforts of Iskonawa women in revitalizing their identity while honoring the artistic journey of Ani, a creator who channels the wisdom of her ancestors through each piece.
This collaborative effort shines a light on the power of art as a medium for cultural expression and preservation. By supporting these artisans and their crafts, we contribute to a movement that honors heritage and fosters communal identity. Through Neyra’s paintings, the stories of the Iskonawa people come alive, inviting us to celebrate and reflect on the rich tapestry of Amazonian culture.
Interested in learning more about the Iskonawa Culture, here are some readings!
https://exhibits.lib.utexas.edu/spotlight/iskonawa-language
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/06/23/endangered-language-iskonawa-amazon-peru/