It’s day three of the creation of Huichol Beaded prayer bowls, or jicaras. This art is made using smaller beads, often called micro beads, that are not as available in Mexico. As a result the art is extremely detailed and amazing. The bowls themselves are cut from the bottoms of gourds.
To see beaded bowls that are available for purchase click here where you will see a good selection, each one of them wonderful and unique.
First, the bowl is cut from the bottom of the gourd, dried thoroughly and the inside is made smooth. Then campeche, a beeswax mixture, is spread thinly on the surface of the inside of the bowl.
Here the beading of the bowl is begun. The artist starts in the center by placing beads to create a wonderful star (peyote) design. The second bowl contains the start of a deer figure, deer being one of the most important symbols for the Huichol.
Join us tomorrow for day 4 where the beading continues.
Follow Latin American Art Gallery