Wixarika: Deer Heads

Description

H: 9"
W: 6.5"
The meticulous designs typical of Wixárika art, also known as Huichol, are made by placing bead by bead. Their designs are colorful, abstract, and rich with symbolism and spiritual connections.
The blue deer represents Kayumahli, the spirit guide. According to Wixarika beliefs, Kayumahli guided four young hunters, seeking food for their people, all the way to Wirikuta, one of their sacred locations in the desert of San Luis. There Kayumahli took the shape of Hikuri, the sacred peyote cactus. The hunters took back the peyote to their elders and after ingesting the peyote their people were cured of the hunger and their thirst.
Every year Wixárika shamans make the 250-mile pilgrimage to Wirikuta. However, this sacred land is constantly threatened by farming, peyote tourism, mining, and waste disposal. Protection of these lands is vital for the survival of the Wixarika culture and lifestyle.