WIXARITARI – CURATOR – JDADA2019

“Design creates culture. Culture shapes values. Values determine the future.”

—- Robert L. Peters —-

Designers Shimaila Tabasum and Smitha G. P.’s collection “Wixaritari” has been inspired by the yarn art along with the jewellery, motifs and silhouettes found on the garments of the Huichol women. Wixaritari or Huichol are the indigenous people of Mexico. The collection is a line of ethnic wear made out of denim with the elements of nature.

The yarn art of Huichols came into existence in the 19^th century, in North West of Mexico which is practiced by the Native Americans living near the Chapla Lake of central Mexico. The urbanized Huichols who shifted to cities drew attention to their culture through art. Inorder to preserve their traditional beliefs they started making modernized yarn art. For the Huichols yarn art does not just hold aesthetic and profit-making value, the symbols in their art are a part of their culture and traditions.

The designers have incorporated bright and intricate designs to represent the Huichol art. Inorder to create the garments of the collection they have used denim fabric as Mexico is also known as the denim hub of North America. The fabric used is recycled, thus making it sustainable. The colours of the fabrics are mid and light washed denim.