The vibrant indigo of El Salvador took center stage at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, during the collective exhibition “Celebrating the Biocultural Diversity of Latin America and the Caribbean.” The works of Salvadoran artist Grace Guirola captivated attendees with their intricate detail, all created using añil, or xiquilite — the natural dye once considered the economic engine of colonial El Salvador.

Supported by El Salvador’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, the exhibition featured Guirola’s representations of local marine life, including turtles, sharks, and other sea creatures. Her fine craftsmanship and deep cultural knowledge bring ancestral techniques like batik and shibori into contemporary relevance.

“What began as a focus on indigo has expanded into the study and application of native dyes from coconut, mangrove, mahogany, nacascol, and more,” said Guirola, who has worked since 1999 to revive the country’s artistic and productive traditions through the use of natural dyes. Her work not only preserves traditional methods but also advocates for marine and coastal resource protection and public environmental awareness.

El Salvador’s ambassador to France and UNESCO representative, Lorena Sol de Pool, praised Guirola’s creations, emphasizing their role in preserving ancestral knowledge and showcasing national identity. She noted that such initiatives align with the goals of El Salvador Renace, a cultural diplomacy strategy promoted by President Nayib Bukele’s government.

The event drew diplomats, UNESCO officials, and special guests, all witnesses to the enduring legacy and global potential of El Salvador’s cultural heritage.