What are Kanaas? Symbology in Wayuu Bags

March 30, 2025

Wayuu bags have gained worldwide popularity for their vibrant geometric patterns, often featuring colorful depictions of animals and flowers. However, traditionally, these bags were adorned with kanaas—symbolic designs unique to Wayuu culture. These intricate patterns are not just decorative; they are a way for the Wayuu people to capture the essence of their land and daily life, transforming reality into abstract, artistic expressions.

In Wayuu tradition, the meaning behind a kanaa is far more significant than its visual form. These designs, rooted in the Wayuu’s deep connection to magical realism, do not aim for literal representation but instead reflect a stylized interpretation of the natural world. This ancient art form, believed to have originated in Alta Guajira, involves the meticulous crocheting of geometric figures that symbolize elements of the Wayuu’s environment and heritage.

As kanaas take shape through bold geometric patterns, a rich spectrum of colors brings their straight lines to life. Typically, these designs are repeated across the fabric, with each repetition reinforcing and amplifying its meaning, making every Wayuu bag not just an accessory, but a woven story of cultural identity and tradition.

Meet Waleker: The Legendary Spider Behind Wayuu Crochet

In Wayuu mythology, Waleker is the mythical spider who taught the Wayuu people the intricate art of crochet. This ancestral knowledge lives on in the carefully crafted kanaas, the symbolic patterns woven into their textiles.

Some kanaas are more complex than others, and the greater the intricacy of the design, the higher the value of the piece. Each woven pattern carries meaning, transforming Wayuu textiles from mere functional items into profound expressions of their worldview and cultural identity.

These meaningful designs appear across a variety of Wayuu textiles, including Wayuu bags, hammocks, backpacks, and more, ensuring that the legacy of Waleker continues to thrive in every stitch.

Below, you’ll find some of the most popular Kanaas and what they represent: