Maya, Woman's blouse (Huipil), c. 1970-1980, cotton, rayon; supplemental weft patterning, Gift of Roberta and Richard Simmons

Maya Dreams: Textile Traditions of the Guatemala Highlands

Saturday, October 28, 2006—Sunday, April 8, 2007
Galleries 255 and 256
Free Exhibition

Brilliantly colorful and richly patterned, Guatemalan textiles are a living expression of an ancient Maya tradition. Artisans from the sixty major weaving centers in the highlands of Guatemala create distinctive regional identities using specific colors, layouts, and design motifs. Imagery, from fanciful birds and mythological animals to abstract representations of natural and celestial phenomena, is executed in intricate brocades and dense embroideries. Drawn from the permanent collection, this exhibition celebrates the aesthetic vision and generosity of Dr. Richard Simmons.