Man's Ceremonial Sash 1998

This is a Man's Ceremonial Sash made by a Maya artist. Just look at how the maker has approached the weaving and dyeing process, you can feel the maker's breath in every stitch. The bold, undyed red of the sash makes me think about the physicality of the medium. The textures, the way the threads are woven together. It feels really good to focus on the edges, where the tassels create this dancing fringe. It makes me want to touch it! Think of the hours spent planning and weaving the geometric designs on the sash. It reminds me a little of Anni Albers, who explored weaving as a form of abstraction. This sash embraces its cultural roots, while also speaking to art's ability to communicate across time.