Behind every piece of Huichol Indian art and jewelry that we carry is a unique story that begins with Huichol (Wee-chol) Indians of Mexico. The Huichol Indians of the central Sierra Madre Occidental are a highly religious people who have miraculously maintained their traditional culture in spite of the pressures exerted on them in modern Mexico. In the words of legendary anthropologist Carl Lumholtz: “Religion to them is a personal matter, not an institution, and therefore their life is religious from the cradle to the grave and wrapped up in symbolism”.
Symbolism in Huichol Indian Art
The rich tradition of symbolism is displayed in the folk art offered by Cosas Bonitas. Beautiful yarn paintings or “cuadros”, beaded animal carvings, bowls and masks all display deep symbolism of Huichol religious belief which is centered around their “holy trinity” of the deer (maxra), maize (iku), and peyote (hikuri). Each Huichol item in our store is made by a member of a family of Huichol Indians who live in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains in the state of Nayarit. The colorful and intricate designs reflect their Huichol culture and religion. Rich in tradition and mysticism, each piece of art is a unique treasure.
Bead Size
In a long-standing fair trade relationship with the artists, the very tiny size 14 beads are provided to them because the size and color of these beads are generally not available in Mexico. This affords a rich palate of colorful and metallic beads to produce this art that is of the finest quality. The use of the very tiny beads produces an amazing result and is remarkable to behold. The usual bead size used in most Huichol art is size 11, which are much larger than those used by the artists we work with. The level of skill required of the smaller size 14 beads is very high and we’re pleased to support their breathtaking artistry.
Fair Trade Art
It is very important that preservation of the Huichol culture be a central part of the sale of each item we sell. Every piece we’ve brought back to the Pacific Northwest is obtained adhering to fair trade principles. We hand select each piece for the Cosas Bonitas Store with an eye for both beauty and a commitment to sustainability. We offer the Huichol Indian art at very reasonable prices as part of our commitment to create a sustainable market for the Huichol Indian artists and their families. The Huichol families that we work with are able to maintain their homes and communities all the while bettering their economic lives.
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