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Art of the Huichol Indians
The Huichols live the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains in Mexico. They speak a language similar to the language spoken by the ancient Aztecs and they practice a religion that is very old.
212 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 1978
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November 26, 2012
The title of this book is somewhat misleading. It would be impossible to discuss Huichol creativity apart from anthropological investigation. The best art produced by the Huichol people is a symbolic reflection of their culture and beliefs, and this art is integrated into the ritual of both daily life and special celebrations. But I would have liked more actual photos of the art, contrasting what is produced for personal use with what is produced strictly for income.
Peyote visions and magic are sources for both color and design. Gifts to the spirits that guide the world, what appears decorative actually has layers of personal and symbolic meaning. Many years of work are required and expected to achieve mastery in creation.
Western observers have different and sometimes conflicting interpretations of the relationships and substance of the Huichols and their work. The book includes a wide range of views, but can get wordy and technical at times.
For the Huichol people, what they make with the wood, stone, fiber, beads, paint, gourds, beeswax, found objects, and sacred gifts of nature, is one with every aspect of their lives. The essays provide a valuable framework from which to view the art. But there were not enough exampls of the art to give full meaning to the words.
Peyote visions and magic are sources for both color and design. Gifts to the spirits that guide the world, what appears decorative actually has layers of personal and symbolic meaning. Many years of work are required and expected to achieve mastery in creation.
Western observers have different and sometimes conflicting interpretations of the relationships and substance of the Huichols and their work. The book includes a wide range of views, but can get wordy and technical at times.
For the Huichol people, what they make with the wood, stone, fiber, beads, paint, gourds, beeswax, found objects, and sacred gifts of nature, is one with every aspect of their lives. The essays provide a valuable framework from which to view the art. But there were not enough exampls of the art to give full meaning to the words.
Displaying 1 of 1 review