Spirituality That Will Move You Nikki Kahn - The Washington Post
go to original March 22, 2012

A 1990 Volkswagen Beetle becomes a canvas for the symbols, milestones and stories of the deeply spiritual culture of the Huichol, or Wixaritari, communities of Nayarit and Jalisco in Mexico. More than 2 million tiny glass beads and nearly 35 pounds of fabric, paint, yarn and resin adorn the Volkswagen Beetle, called "Vochol."

Few parts of the car were left untouched. The decorative materials adorn the chassis and interior, including the seats, steering wheel and dashboard. It took eight indigenous artisans more than 9,000 hours to transform the car.

Those in the Huichol culture have a dedication to the visual arts, and they have preserved the tradition over centuries.  Among the designs are images of deer, the culture's most revered animal. Other designs on the car include a two-headed eagle marking the four cardinal directions as well as the fire, drum, squash and corn used in a traditional maize-offering ceremony,

The piece of art is at the National Museum of the American Indian in the District through May 6, when it will continue on its international tour. After the tour, the car will be sold or auctioned, with proceeds going to the Association of Friends of the Museum of Popular Art in Mexico City to help safeguard and promote the work of Mexican artisans.

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