Beaded Tassle Necklace

Blue, red, black and white hawk beadwork that captures the narrative of the Wixárica, or Huichol, people from Jalisco, Mexico. It is a handcrafted item that is intimately connected to their cultural heritage. The hawk symbolizes the messenger of god in their culture, serving as a connection between the spiritual and physical worlds.

The name "Huichol" comes from "Wixárica," which means "healer" or "shaman." These shamans connect the community with the spiritual world, inspiring their art, which is viewed as a divine gift. Their artwork frequently features significant symbols like deer, corn, and peyote—each with profound cultural meanings, depicting the reverence they have for nature and their spiritual practices.

Throughout their history, especially during Spanish colonization, the Wixárica people retreated to the mountains, helping to keep their ancient practices and way of life alive. Their art is not just for aesthetics; it is a form of storytelling and preserving their heritage, with each piece narrating a segment of their collective history.

Shamans play a crucial role in the Wixárica's artistic process, using peyote to gain visions that then influence their creations. This makes their art not only visually captivating but also a central aspect of their spiritual existence and identity.

Each work of art carries a piece of the artist's personal journey, and the Wixárica community is unique in Mexico for its strong adherence to ancestral beliefs. Their art is a bridge to the ancient times and is part of a spiritual odyssey, guided by shamans who lead their community through a rich cultural and mystical quest.