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Discover the rich artisan tradition of the Colombian Pacific.

In this region, ancestral, Afro-descendant and indigenous communities keep their culture alive through cultural manifestations rooted in their territory. Handicrafts are an integral part of daily life and a natural expression of the identity of these communities.

Let me introduce you to Teodula Mancilla, a member of the Coopmujeres artisan group. Born and raised in the village of San Vicente, near the source of the Guapi River in the department of Cauca, Teo learned the art of basketry with vegetable fibers from an early age, together with her mother and sisters.

Imagine Teo and his sisters in a boat, navigating through pipes and ravines, in search of teapot straw wands . After selecting the right ones, they would return home to process them into beautiful baskets and hats.

The women of the southern Colombian Pacific have developed multiple skills, combining the daily tasks of caring for children and housework with extracting gold in the mines, planting food and gathering in the forests. In this context, natural fibers have been used to make objects that facilitate their daily lives.

Coopmujeres, an artisan group made up of 11 women, keeps the tradition of basketry and hat making alive. In his store, located in front of the Río Guapi hotel, you will find a wide variety of hats and baskets, made with native materials such as teapot straw and chocolate, from the tradition of the Eperara Siapidaara indigenous people.

In addition to hats and baskets, Coopmujeres also offers musical instruments, such as the chonta marimba, and wooden utensils. Their work not only contributes to the local economy, but also preserves ancestral knowledge and promotes the cultural diversity of the Colombian Pacific.

Come and discover the magic of these crafts, made with love and dedication. Each piece tells a story and carries with it the cultural essence of this region full of Afro-descendant and indigenous traditions. Support Coopmujeres and help us preserve the heritage of the Colombian Pacific.