One of the oldest civilizations to take root in Mexico, the Huichols are still a permanent part of the Mexican ancestry and have found their homes in the Jalisco and Nayarit states. Their culture is a rich and tradition-steeped one, which has permeated into their art and crafts, embodying their vibrant spirit and thirst for adventure. It is the art of this culture that Artesanias Watakame celebrates, through its comprehensive collection of native artwork and traditional crafts.
The Huichols are well-known for the yarn paintings they create, which preserve their ancient beliefs and ceremonies. These paintings create a unique perspective into their culture and shamanistic traditions. The museum also houses beaded eggs, which have been used by the Huichols for their sacred practices. The various emblems that their culture uses are emblazoned on their art as well. These include representations of the sun, the deer, the wind and the peyote. The Nierika, which was used as a sacred offering also depicts the face of the man making the sacrifice. This article is more like a stone tablet, which has a hole in the center, in which a piece of glass or a mirror is placed. The sides are covered with intricate yarn paintings. The specimens showcased in the museum also include gourd bowls, embellished with bone, clay, jade and shell beads and jewelry like anklets, bracelets and earnings which are created with similar beads. You can also view examples of masks that were used in sacred ceremonies and detailed representations of jaguar heads.
The Huichols worshipped the peyote as their god and this theme predominates most of their artwork. One of the most ancient and enduring tribes in Mexico, the Huichols and their art find a glorious representation in the Artesanias Watakame museum.
You can visit the museum from 10 am to 2 pm and between 4 pm and 8 pm, Monday through Saturday.
Artesanias Watakame
Libertad #327
Puerto Vallarta 48300 Mexico
