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Crafts and Artwork

Beautiful and intricate weavings are done on portable, back-strap looms. Each Mayan group in Guatemala retains its ancient designs which tell something about the people in that area of the country. For many post-war widows, selling their weavings is their only source of income.

The Department of Chimaltenango, where this mission is based, is peopled by Kaqchikel Mayans. Notice the different styles of these embroidered women’s blouses known as ‘huipiles’. The small squares filled with embroidered animals, flowers and birds are typical of the Quiché Maya from around Lake Sololá. The flowered yoke style is more typical of the Kaqchikel Maya from Chimaltenango.

The area of Comalapa, northeast of Chimaltenango, is well known for its artisans and its use of graphic art to tell stories of the past. This mural depicts the trauma of the country’s civil war [1960-1996] and the further destruction of Mayan people, families, and whole communities. This mission addresses the Kaqchikel Mayan’s need to re-member itself and go forth into the modern world from which it has Been marginalized since the Spanish conquest of 1523.

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