Kuna families inhabit even the most remote islands in the San Blas archipelago. All outlying islands are "owned" by a pueblo, or village, and are occupied by families rotating throughout the year who live on and maintain these islands. The people are without fail welcoming and curious, enjoying time with visitors as if a member of their extended family.
Analiana is the eldest sibling and ambassador of the current family in rotation on the island of Yansaladup. She often asks to have their picture taken in the hopes that we will print out photos for them. On one occasion, she and her sister Deliana dressed up for the photo shoot and wore their molas and special gold jewelry.
Thin, intricately patterned gold is a common adornment that Kuna women wear like their molas and leg beads. Whether or not it is also a sign of wealth as in western society is not certain, but it seems a likely symbol of success even in this communal culture. Analiana told us that they make and sell molas to buy the gold for their jewelry.
The youngest kids are shy and impressionable as they follow us around and join in our activities. Both Lizz and Sharda have grown little shadows...!
Anatelia helps Lizz gather sea beans and other treasures on her island walks and is as cute as a doll with a playful spirit.
Analiana never strays far from Sharda's side even for hours of yoga, where she mimics her every move.
