06/20/2022
This wall hanging draws me in the more I interact with it.
I knew it was special when I saw it in Dalia’s dusty little shop; I knew it was coming home with me.
In Dalia’s own (translated) words:
“The NeNe [the bead and knot at the top] represents the good luck that formalizes for our lives, even vibrates protection.
Each strip has an animal that has a very important meaning.
For example, the toucan represents the internal and external beauty of women by its songs and colors. That's why you always hear her sing in the woods because it's a very important symbol of beauty.
The Guey Eye: Take away the bad spirits.
The star : It represents wisdom.
Some designs are symbols that include pre-Columbian, that many ancestors have used for decoration or even for an identity.”
The words painted at the top are a combination of Spanish words and Maleku words. Capi Capi is sort of the Maleku equivalent to Pura Vida — all around greeting and wish for happiness. The last word is also in the Maleku language and means, simply, thank you.
The work and creativity that Dalia put into this are so evident. If you look closely, each strip mimics the human form— top-knot head at the top and large tree seed feet at the bottom. This is truly a one of a kind piece.
19” x 24”, all natural, $65
