The exhibition examines the mola as both textile art and cultural artifact. It also examines the Kuna lifestyle within the larger issue of maintaining tradition in the face of immense forces for change. Although they have been successful in adhering to their traditional ways, the Kuna have not stood still. This exhibition examines how they are changing and how they are holding their ground. Molas are created by a reverse applique process in which two to five layers of cloth are basted together, then patterns cut through the layers, exposing the cloth below.
Construction ranges from the simple to the complex.
Designs run the gamut from geometric patterns and ritual objects, to Christian symbols, Spanish and English words, cartoon characters, and even advertising logos. Any viewer interested in textiles, in crafts, or in exhibitions with multicultural themes will be fascinated by Kuna Mola . With Panama taking control of the Canal Zone in January 2000, international attention will be focused on that country, making this a very timely exhibition.