Chaka Arcana — The Story of the Kimonos

For years I was searching for the thing I was meant to do — and longer still to believe I could do it.

The learning

I knew I needed to make something that gives me purpose — or else I wouldn't do it, and I would waste my life. So I taught myself, piece by piece. And the more I learned about the fashion industry, the more I understood how harmful it can be.

Everything changed

Then quarantine came, and I was forced to look at the world as it truly is. After much pain, much research, and — mostly — much meditation, the idea for Saudade Land came to me. It gave me hope and inspiration — and I realised this was the only way to go. This vision was never only mine; it is the only way for us to evolve as human beings — the only solution, and the only hope.

Almost giving up

There was a moment I nearly walked away. I did not want to be part of that. Then a special man named Oskar told me: “You are right, Mayka. We don't need more. But we do need different.”

That was all I needed to hear to never doubt my dream again.

The bridge

In Bolivia I lived close to the Chakana — the Andean stepped cross, the living map of the four directions and the three worlds. It is the bridge. Chaka. That word — Chaka, bridge — became the soul of this project. Each kimono is an energy protector, and a message: we have not forgotten.

Finding the right hands

Making it real was the hardest part. I contacted endless companies and travelled to different countries trying to source a truly sustainable collection — and almost no one had the textiles. They were painfully slow to respond, or never responded at all. Again and again they sent me synthetic samples, even when I had said clearly: natural materials only, zero plastic. I lost so much time, energy, and money. Most companies want fast fashion and enormous orders; I am making something small and organic — which, in this industry, is almost impossible.

Then, finally, I found the right people: a company in India, a team of talented, wonderful women who understand my vision and are a true joy to work with. Soon I will visit them there.

Five Frequencies

There are five, and each is a portal:

- I · Chakana — The sacred cross. The four directions. The living map of all that exists. In collaboration with the wonderful Ecuadorian artist Sarahi.
- II · Ixchel Cipher — The secret code of the weaving goddess. By Mayka.
- III · Chakana Ignis — The fire of the sacred cross. The burning bridge between worlds. By Mayka.
- IV · Pacha Azul — The blue world. The cosmos alive. In collaboration with the talented Bolivian artist Anki.
- V · Pacha Verde — The green world. The living earth in full bloom. In collaboration with the talented Bolivian artist Anki.