Meet the Maker: Dalia Negria

Wounaan Master Weaver | Sinai, Darién, Panama

Dalia Negria is one of the master weavers we are honored to work with at RFB. She grew up in the remote rainforest community of Sinai, in the Darién region of Panama, where weaving was passed down through women in her family. Her aunt—a skilled artist in her own right—taught Dalia how to work with Chunga Palm, one of the foundational materials used in Wounaan basketry. Under her guidance, Dalia became one of the first weavers to incorporate shredded Chunga into intricate designs.

Her work is known for both its technical excellence and creative innovation. Early in her career, Dalia began experimenting with natural dyes, creating entirely new shades from local materials. She was the first to use Cocobolo wood—a rosewood typically carved by Wounaan men—to produce a deep black dye. She also developed a vibrant red from Pucham, a medicinal leaf traditionally used to treat wounds.

Dalia is one of the renowned Negria sisters—three siblings whose work is widely recognized for its artistry. Miriam, her sister, is known for macaw motifs and some of the finest weaving techniques in the region. Christina specializes in cultural designs featuring butterflies, quetzals, and native flowers.

Beyond her own art, Dalia is a teacher and leader. She has trained fellow weavers through Embera-Wounaan organizations and church-led workshops. Thanks to her influence, over 400 Wounaan artisans now earn their livelihoods through Chunga weaving. Dalia continues to invest her income in her daughters’ education and in improving life for her family—one coil, one color, one design at a time.