A symbolic milestone marked the opening day: the presence of four Mapuche craftswomen who traveled to Japan to meet again with the Makün, the collective work that covers the Chile Pavilion. There they shared with visitors the process of creation, the symbolism of the piece and, in a participatory space, taught the weaving technique they used.
Makün: a work that converses with the world
Makün is much more than a handicraft object. It is a collective creation that brings together techniques, knowledge and symbols of Mapuche culture, translated into a mantle that envelops those who contemplate it. With more than 240 square meters and the participation of more than 200 women in its elaboration, its exhibition in Osaka 2025 underlines a Chilean identity rich in traditions and in the capacity of the communities to innovate without losing their ancestral memory.
Anita Paillamil Antiqueo, Luisa Sandoval Parra, Claudia Silva Canuqueo and Norma Millache Rain are four of the women behind this artistic work who traveled to the Asian country. In this context, they did not hide their happiness to witness their work live and have the opportunity for people from all over the world to learn more about Chile and the Mapuche culture.
"Seeing Makün installed in Osaka gave me mixed feelings. After more than a year of work, meeting him again and seeing him intact, with his colors, his designs and well stretched, makes me feel very proud and happy. Not only for me, but also for representing the work of many weavers of the VIII and IX regions, who unfortunately cannot see their work, but we play the role of messengers. To have had spaces such as the discussion and workshops is a demonstration of the power that we Mapuche and non-Mapuche women of Araucanía have," said Anita Paillamil Antiqueo.
Claudia Silva Canuqueo said: "Seeing the Makün was significant, exciting, ancestral. We relived the whole process of uniting the territories, which is important to highlight; also to show our culture in this way, that of our ancestors and also what is still alive. But, above all, the trades, so that they have the value they deserve".
A week not to be missed
The opening day was just the beginning of a full agenda at the Chile Pavilion. Talks, exhibitions, workshops and tastings will mark the next few days of "Chile Country of Women", inviting visitors to Expo Osaka 2025 to get to know and experience the cultural and creative diversity of our country.
This thematic week, which takes its name from the campaign promoted by Fundación Imagen de Chile, also highlights the achievements and challenges that Chile faces to reduce the gender gap, highlighting milestones achieved and giving visibility to women who, from different areas and territories, contribute to Chile's international recognition as a country of women.
Find out more on the official Chile at Expo Osaka 2025 website.
