Huni Kuin (BRA)
Indigenous tribe of the Amazon and Kayatibu musical group
Yaka, Rita, Shane and Bixku are members of Kayatibu, a musical and spiritual group of the Huni Kuin indigenous tribe from the Amazon jungle in Brazil. They are one of the few tribes that still retain their culture, traditions and deep connection to nature.
Together, the Kayatibu study and create music and traditional arts, and share their knowledge of life in the heart of the Amazon. Their mission is to build bridges between indigenous wisdom and the modern world, opening space for mutual learning and finding a common path for a new era.
Yaka Sales Huni Kuin is a renowned artist of the Huni Kuin culture. She has been studying traditional cultural heritage since she was a child. At the age of 15 she began to translate her knowledge and visions onto the art canvas. These visions are inspired by the rituals of her tribe, which include the sacred medicine of Nixi Pae, also known as Ayahuasca.
Yaka is the co-creator of the Kayatibu group and the Makhu movement, a group of indigenous artists who empower their culture through music, art and lectures. Yaka is an important voice of indigenous peoples, promoting unity among the various villages along the Jordão River and advocating for the preservation of traditional culture and customs.
Rita Sales Huni Kuin is an artist, activist and mother whose work supports the status of women in society and traditional cultures. Through art, paintings and the power of words, she brings to life the rich heritage of the Huni Kuin tribe and shares their deep spirituality with the world. She draws inspiration from her tribe's mythology, sacred legends, prayers and traditional songs, which she transforms into works of art.
Shane Huni Kuin, an exceptional singer from the village of Chico Curumim, is the eldest son of the local tribe’s leader. From an early age, he has been studying the traditional wisdom and sacred songs of his people. He focuses on the sacred Huni Meka songs, which have been an integral part of Huni Kuin culture for centuries, playing a key role in traditional ceremonies and healing, and are seen as the sacred language of the spirits.
Shane not only sings but also brings the deep symbolism of these songs onto canvas. His powerful energy inspires future generations in his indigenous community as well as others around the world.
Bixku Sales Huni Kuin is a talented artist and the third son of the tribe’s leader Chico Curumim. Since childhood, he has been learning the traditions of his tribe from his father and grandfather - from knowledge of plants and their medicinal uses to rituals, to making art objects from natural materials, painting and the sacred singing of Huni Meka.
Like his older brother Shane, Bixku is an accomplished singer. His voice guides us through the deep meaning of sacred songs that help us connect with nature and ourselves. His paintings capture life in the jungle and the stories of his people, passed down through generations. They invite us to stop and immerse ourselves in the present.