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"One should always bring offerings to the gods in order to receive their protection," advises Higinio Hernández. He celebrates Huichol custom with this mask as he finds inspiration in the psychedelic effects of jicurí ("peyote flower"). Ingested only for ceremonial purposes, jicurí is regarded as a sacred flower for it allows a person to see and communicate with the gods. Hernández depicts the peyote flower on the mask's forehead; the cheeks glow with images of the sun god. Two terukas scurry from the chin; these scorpions guard the maize.
To craft this piece, Hernandez carefully affixes colorful beads or chaquira upon a papier maché base, using a natural wax of his own preparation, known as cera de Campeche. This work is an extraordinary testimonial of pre-Hispanic shamanic rituals that have transcended the passing of time and history.
Higinio was very emotionally affected after being abandoned by his mother at the age of four. In his words, "When I was four years old, my mom abandoned me and left me with my dad. I was an only child. Later, he remarried and, when my stepmother arrived, that's where the emotional problems started. She did not treat me like my half-brothers. I always ate last. My dad never noticed. When I was 11 years old, it was so bad that I left home. It was very difficult surviving by myself, although I learned a lot. I went to the city. And later, when I returned to the village, they respected me more. I learned how to handle myself and they see me better. And I help the community. My half brothers respect me now and we have no problems."
Higinio has left a profound impact in his community and has successfully tripled the growth of his endeavor from his first six months at NOVICA.
Higinio passes down traditional techniques to his family in order to preserve the authenticity of each of his Huichol beadwork designs.
Higinio's sales from NOVICA represent the majority of his income. Each purchase makes a profound impact on his family's livelihood.
Higinio is a very dedicated father who has six children that he supports financially.
Higinio's income supports and provides for the education of his six children.
"I hope that you enjoy my works as much as I enjoy making them. I hope that through them you will get a better understanding of the magic and meaning of the Huichol culture."
California
Robert
Cristina
