Mola Art

We also received a few framed pieces of mola fabric art from Mike's grandmother.   "The mola originated with the tradition of Kuna women painting their bodies with geometrical designs, using available natural colours; in later years these same designs were woven in cotton, and later still, sewn using cloth bought from the European settlers of Panama." (from Wikipedia) 

Several layers of fabric are sewn together, and then the designs are cut out from the top layers to expose the different layers beneath.  It's obviously a very detailed and time-consuming process.  The more colors (i.e. layers) the greater the level of difficulty. 

The molas are now hanging in our entryway and I love the burst of color they add!

These pieces are beautiful, especially when you look closely and appreciate the fine details.

 

For more information, see Wikipedia.