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Sain Kai: Weaving Timeless Stories and Connections


In the heart of the Wayuú indigenous community, hidden amidst the vibrant landscapes where the sun rises with the promise of new beginnings, a vision was born. This vision, nurtured by the collaboration of Ibu Movement and the Ibu Foundation, has blossomed into something truly extraordinary: Sain Kai.

SAIN KAI, GUAJIRA, WAYUU

Sain Kai, which means "The place where the sun is born" or "where the sun rises" in Wayuunaiki, is a testament to the power of collaboration and preserving culture while improving the conditions for it to live. It all started with a simple but energetic idea: to create a space where tradition meets innovation, where the cultural heritage of the Wayuú community can thrive and evolve.

At the heart of Sain Kai lies a deep sense of gratitude: gratitude to the women of the community who have welcomed us with open arms, gratitude to ibu Movemtn for their unwavering support, and gratitude to the Estudio Bosque team for turning this dream into a tangible reality.

Sain Kai is a symbol of resilience, a beacon of hope for future generations. Guiding ourselves and learning from local architectural and spatial practices was paramount in the development of this project. Estudio Bosque took this ethos to heart, employing vernacular architecture and using local materials and construction techniques. From the intricate roofs woven from Yotohoro wood and recycled tires to the use of community building materials such as caracolí and trupillo, every aspect of Sain Kai was intended to reflect our deep respect for tradition and commitment to sustainability, for which the community was involved in every step and process of this building.

However, the most inspiring aspect of Sain Kai for us is its impact on the community. Through collaborative processes and co-creation dialogues, Sain Kai has become more than just a cultural work space: it is a space of re-learning and creation for the Wayúu community.

With two classrooms dedicated to education and a weaving space for women artisans to share their craft, Sain Kai serves as a center for learning, creativity and economic empowerment. It is a place where traditions are passed from one generation to the next, where skills are honed, and where dreams take flight. It is an attempt to maintain and rescue ancient artisanal techniques that are in danger of being lost.

Additionally, this place serves as an exhibition center, a place to showcase the artistry and impressive loom work to new visitors and simultaneously market their crafts, a vital source of income for the community.

Sain Kai seeks to leave an indelible mark on the very fabric of the community through its educational programs and collaborative work spaces, Sain Kai wants to empower future generations and revitalize the cultural pride of the community.

And although the road to cultural preservation is long and often difficult, Sain Kai is a symbol of hope. With every stitch in a traditional weave and every person who finds inspiration in elementary school classrooms, Sain Kai's legacy will continue to grow and prosper.

Ultimately, Sain Kai is a living testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and hope. And as we look to the future, we do so with gratitude and optimism, knowing that the sun always shines brightest where it is born: in Sain Kai.