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Shamanic Art of the Huichols

Huichol shamanic art Yarn Paintngs
 

The Huichol People of central Mexico still follow the age-old shamanic ways of their ancestors, an unbroken wisdom-bridge stretching back into the Paleolithic. The "mara'akame", the shaman, still leads pilgrims on a yearly journey retracing the pathof the Gods and Goddesses when they first appeared in this middle world and traveled on sacred pilgrimage to find its center.

The Pilgrimage culminates in a night-long ceremony around "Tatewari", Grandfather Fire, a meditative retreat during which shamanic ceremony induces a visionary state by which the Huichol People find their lives and the power, the "kupuri", to follow their heart path to completion. Their distinctive visionary art, in the form of yarn paintings, embroided clothing, bags, beaded gourds, masks, jewelry, and sculpture, all derives from their shamanic visions whose symbols form the basis of their work and their lives.

(For more information about Huichol ceremonies, see Tom's book on Shamanism: Flowers of Wiricuta - a Gringo's Journey to Shamanic Power)

 Huichol beaded doll, inspired by shamanic visions


shamanic art - beaded Huichol mask



The work is all hand-made by individual artists who are taught by their elders, and who then pass on the artistic techniques to their children. And so it goes, from generation to generation. Originally all the art work was made as "offrendas", prayer offerings to the Spirits left at places of power along the Pilgrimage route. This practice is still continued, but now some of the art is made to sell to interested parties who value the Huichol Path.

The Huichols are struggling to maintain their ancestral ways and they are under tremendous pressures of acculturation. Their knowledge of the transpersonal realm and of how to live in harmony with the forces of nature are treasures that we can not afford to lose. You can help the Huichol People stay connected with their shamanic roots by purchasing productions of their art.


The Huichol believe that making beautiful art for their clothing and as "offrendas", as gifts, is prayer made visible. We of Nierica, who have been given so much of value for our lives from our Huichol teachers and friends, ask your help in helping promote the continued existence and sustainability of a wise and wonderful people--the Huichol. We need what they still know--how to live in right relationship with all of Creation.

We are investigating ways to bring you these wonderful arts and crafts. Please check the Nierica Trading Post for our progress and to purchase books and tapes on the Huichol and shamanism.

Check back often for new information on Huichol Shamanic Art.

Huichol beaded Medicine Bags - inspired by shamanic visionary experiences



For more examples of visionary Shamanic and Huichol art, check out these links: