Shawl (Perraje) 1930 - 1935

This Shawl, or Perraje, was made by Maya artists with thread, and it feels so good to be reminded that process can be the point of art! I love the way the color and pattern in this piece creates a real sense of rhythm. The stripes of green, blue, white, and purple feel almost musical, and the subtle variations in the patterns give it a handmade, human touch. The texture looks soft and inviting, and you can almost feel the individual threads that make up the whole. The way the colors are woven together is really striking. Look at one little section; maybe one of the white stripes with the tiny dashes. It's like a secret code or a language all its own. It reminds me of the work of Anni Albers, who pushed the boundaries of weaving as a fine art. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art can be found in the everyday, and that the most beautiful things are often the ones that are made with care and intention.