The Many Faces of Weaving

A while ago I posted an entry about the photographic exhibits which are hung along the fence of Chapultepec Park.  On my latest trip to Mexico City, there was a second display of photos.  This one dealt with different types of weaving found throughout Mexico.  We're not talking about the conventional weaving of fabric on a loom (although that is certainly an important Mexican handicraft), but different techniques and different materials that are in some cases quite unconventional.

Here are some of the photos from that exhibit...

The Seri tribe of the northern state of Sonora produces some of the country's most beautiful baskets.

In the state of Yucatán the fiber of the sisal or "henequén" plant is used not only to make rope and twine, but also a variety of handicrafts such as hammocks.

The town of Becal in the state of Campeche is famous for producing the finest "Panama" hats.  They are woven from the leaves of the "jipijapa" palm, a plant which is technically not a member of the palm family.  The hats are woven in caves where the humidity keeps the leaves pliable.

In the village of Tetelpa in the state of Morelos, the leaves of an agave called the "cucharilla" plant are woven to create flowers.  These "flowers" are used to decorate large archways which adorn the church on holidays.

In the village of Zautla, Puebla, a woman weaves "petates", the traditional sleeping mat.

In San Miguel Tolimán in the state of Querétaro food and flowers are woven together to create a 60 foot high tower known as a "chimal".  These towers honor the patron saint and give thanks for a successful harvest.

In Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas, natural fibers are used to create the headdresses for the traditional dancers who perform at the town's annual festival.

An interesting display on the amazing creativity of the Mexican people!