Beadwork & Bags

A major art form, usually made for ritual use, beaded masks, gourd bowls and spirit figures are also created from visions. Beaded gourd bowls are often left as offerings during pilgrimages, and they can be found on the altars of Huichol homes and temples. Beaded masks and spirit figures record the dream visions of the women and men who create them. Designs using figures of Grandfather Fire, the Deer, the Double-Headed Eagles, serpent, lighting, feather wands, corn, nierikas, etc, tell the stories of Huichol mythology. The masks and figures are created by pressing beads into the beeswax covered wood.  The Foundation also has an incredible collection of beaded breast plates, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, barrettes, and rings. This beaded work is exquisite and each piece is one of a kind.