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A sacred symbol, this blue jikuri or peyote flower recalls millenary Huichol traditions. Kawuyumaire, the Huichol's elder brother, assumes the form of a deer to become a messenger from the gods. His presence is only perceptible through the consumption of peyote flowers. Higinio Hernandez handcrafts this mask to ask the gods' assurance of an abundant maize harvest, as well as protection from the scorpions that guard it. The Huichol draw, paint or make elaborate yarn or bead works, using the images that best express what it is they want to ask the gods, in the hopes it will be granted.
Hernandez is an artist of Huichol and in this piece he carefully affixes colorful beads or chaquira upon a fiberglass base. Hernandez affixes the beads with a natural glue of his own preparation, known as cera de Campeche. This work is an extraordinary testimonial of pre-Hispanic shamanic rituals that have transcended the passing of time and history, and is certain to enthrall the admirer of Huichol custom.
Care instructions: To prevent the beads from coming loose, do not expose this piece to direct heat or light as it may melt the Campeche wax adhesive.
Higinio was very emotionally affected after being abandoned by his mother at the age of four. In his words, "When I was four years old, my mom abandoned me and left me with my dad. I was an only child. Later, he remarried and, when my stepmother arrived, that's where the emotional problems started. She did not treat me like my half-brothers. I always ate last. My dad never noticed. When I was 11 years old, it was so bad that I left home. It was very difficult surviving by myself, although I learned a lot. I went to the city. And later, when I returned to the village, they respected me more. I learned how to handle myself and they see me better. And I help the community. My half brothers respect me now and we have no problems."
Higinio has left a profound impact in his community and has successfully tripled the growth of his endeavor from his first six months at NOVICA.
Higinio passes down traditional techniques to his family in order to preserve the authenticity of each of his Huichol beadwork designs.
Higinio's sales from NOVICA represent the majority of his income. Each purchase makes a profound impact on his family's livelihood.
Higinio is a very dedicated father who has six children that he supports financially.
Higinio's income supports and provides for the education of his six children.
I have a few other Huichol items and the one thing that struck me about the mask is how sturdy it is. The mask that the beads are mounted on is very hard and not a single bead fell out when removing the packaging or hanging the mask. My other Huichol sculptures are so delicate that they cannot be handled at all without losing a bead or two.
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"I hope that you enjoy my works as much as I enjoy making them. I hope that through them you will get a better understanding of the magic and meaning of the Huichol culture."
California
Robert
Cristina
