Shipibo Art: A Vision of Reciprocity

The Shipibo people of the Peruvian Amazon do not see art as separate from life; instead, they speak of kené—a sacred design system that weaves together the seen and unseen. Traditionally traced onto ceramics, textiles, and even the skin, these geometric patterns embody the energy of master plants and reflect a worldview where nature, land, and spiritual beings exist in reciprocity.

“Kené gives structure and materializes the energy of master plants, presenting a different understanding of time and space in which human life, nature, land, and spiritual beings exist in reciprocity.”
— Miguel A. López, Archives of Women Artists, Research and Exhibitions

This collection features the work of two Shipibo painters, each offering a distinct perspective. One follows the ancestral tradition of kené, creating intricate geometric designs that channel spiritual energy. The other weaves storytelling into his patterns, bringing to life the myths and legends of the jungle. Together, their works offer a glimpse into the deep wisdom, symbolism, and beauty of Shipibo culture.