Traditional knowledge and technologies relating to the…Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Representative List 2015
EN: The communities of the municipality of Aguasay store the knowledge and techniques passed on from their ancestors on how to grow the curagua under the best conditions and yield an excellent fiber in terms of color, texture and durability
EN: The 'carving' of the curagua fiber requires strength and expertise. The arduous activity is usually carried out outdoors, near the crops. A skilled carver can reach an output of up to 3 Kg. of fiber per day
EN: Once the mostly male group of growers and carvers finish extracting the curagua, the women prepare it by washing it, putting it to dry under the sun and spinning the treads
EN: The curagua-related knowledge and technology mastered by the tradition bearers of the municipality of Aguassy is used to produce a resistant, durable and nice looking fiber that undergoes a special process before turning into yarn for different uses
EN: The chinchorro made of curagua is the most representative traditional object of the communities in the municipality of Aguassy. So far as tradition bearers are concerned, this is a space for women to create and contribute to the family
EN: Weaving the curagua is a painstaking task, in which the human body is used as a major tool. The creation of handicrafts is done routinely with the family circle, in between other household activities
EN: The goods made of curagua reflect individual and collective creativity through a combination of geometric weavings and patterns, know as 'Alegría', 'Pañuelo' and 'Cajón', among others, which are in constant creation
EN: Tradition bearers are always innovating in the manufacturing of artisanal goods. The ability to find new uses, materials and weaving techniques showcases the dynamic nature of the knowledge and technologies to the curagua
EN: Both men and women feel proud and passionate about the plant and its products, and share a sense of togetherness that goes beyond ethnicity, gender or age
EN: The transmission of knowledge and techniques relating to the curagua usually takes place at home among friends and family members; while at school, the identity-shaping power of the manifestation is reinforced at an early age
