Backstrap Weaver © Marilyn Anderson. Linocut, 10″ x 12 3/4″
Maya women are masters at backstrap weaving. This woman from San Antonio Aguascalientes, a famous weaving center, uses a simple ancient loom, made of threads and sticks, to produce a traditional textile. Such weaving is remarkable for its high technical and artistic level. The colors and designs can signify the wearer’s identity and place of origin, as well as having symbolic and religious meaning. Guatemala is the only country in Central America where a strong tradition of backstrap weaving exists and thousands of women continue to practice their art.