Geometric

Geometric was the first yarn painting created by Cuchama in 1993. It was worked on a 5 x13 inch cottonwood panel that was a remnant of a broken drum in progress. Materials include recycled cotton yarns, beeswax and pine pitch. Three elements are recognized in the design: two triangles and a cross. At the top, a black, downward pointing triangle, the symbol for woman, the Delta of Venus. Black, the color of empty yin, together with the shape represent the most feminine of symbols. At the bottom, is a red, upward pointing triangle, the symbol for fire, the male generative energy. Red, the color of full yang, together with the shape represent the most masculine of symbols. The relative positions of the triangles, represent the elevation of woman and the supportive foundation of man.

Together the triangles point toward a Druidic-style cross which has ancient symbolic references in the old Goddess religion, perhaps even a glyph for the Goddess, Herself. The colors of the cross contain all the colors of the tabla, including white. Characteristic outlining of the image, especially in white, indicates a high vibratory or spiritual state.

Notice that all three elements contain within them a stylized peyote button and each button contains five white fluffs. Five is a sacred number to the Huichol people, from whom this art developed. Five represents the four directions (four arms of the cross) and the fire in the center. Peyote is the holy sacrament of the Huichol culture. It is fitting that this first piece celebrate these medicine people with whom the artist has a spiritual bond. The piece is in the private collection of Melissa Larson, who inspired the work.