brittmariekbh.com is the expression of a passion for aesthetics and craftsmanship.
Our Guanbana bags, belts and bracelets are all handmade using crochet techniques by the Wayuu people. The colorful designs that characterize the traditional style has existed for countless generations.
We have searched through our partner's archives with the goal of finding handmade vintage styles with timeless aesthetic. The artisans have spent their whole lives mastering their craft, and the selection is a testament to their incredible skills, traditions and dedication. Their work makes up an important but fragile artistic and cultural heritage.
Selling handwoven creations to people outside Colombia has become a significant source of economic income for the Wayuu people. It is therefore crucial that the handmade textiles are connected to the people who make them and the ancient traditions they represent. Therefore, I am always making a point of communicating the culture, traditions, and histories of the communities we work with. In that way, we try to conserve endangered craft traditions and traditional weaving techniques.
Identify the essential and leave out the rest.
We believe the best thing we can do for our planet is, buy less and use what we have for longer. The quality of our products, are therefore essential to ensure their durability.
On the northern La Guajira peninsula, where the Wayuu are traditionally from, you are met with hot and dry desert. It is from these conditions the different designs of wayuu tote bags have emerged. The bags must be able to withstand sun, sand, heat, and the long walks up and down the steep hills of the Colombian desert landscape. Quality and durability are a necessity under these conditions.
However, even though our tote bags are crocheted in a way that makes them durable, they will eventually reflect the places and travels they have done. Usage only refines it - the more it is used the better it becomes.
Please feel free to contact me at visit@brittmariekbh.com if you have any questions.