Drawing with Scissors: Molas from Kuna Yala - Travelling
| Curated by | Max Allen |
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Exhibition Overview
After Panama became an independent nation in 1903, a law was passed that said the “wild indigenous tribes,” notably the Kuna, had to be “compelled to lead civilized lives.” Women’s blouses called mola, with their geometric and pictorial patterns that articulated the Kuna understanding of the world, were banned. At this point the Kuna had had enough of colonial interference, and the result was their 1925 Revolution. Following a period of negotiation, the Kuna established the right to practice their traditions as well as gaining virtual autonomy over their own territory in the San Blas Islands, now called Kuna Yala.
The graphic panels on the mola blouses – done in reverse appliqué and embroidery – depict everything the Kuna see around them, from ancient plant and animal spirits to reimagined television news and Disney characters.
Additional Information
Content |
up to 170 molas from the TMC collection. | |
Additional Resources |
Didactic panels, labels, educational resource guide, and dvd | |
Availability |
Please inquire | |
Duration |
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Full size: |
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Run FT/Sq. Ft |
Flexible | |
Security |
Standard | |
Facility Requirements |
Flexible space, professional museum environment | |
Rental Fee |
To be negotiated. For travelling exhibition package contact Roxane Shaughnessy, rshaughnessy@textilemuseum.ca |
