Ixim Ulew (Tupuy & Altar)

Ixim Ulew (Tupuy & Altar)

Ixim Ulew (Tupuy & Altar)
2023
Mixed media

"Ixim Ulew is a sculptural representation of Guatemala’s diverse cultural signifiers. These range from textile work to culinary ingredients to Mayan altars during ceremonies, and artisanal craft practices.

The viewer is introduced to objects like the “tupuy”, in the wood and cotton sculpture. A tupuy is a traditional regalia piece worn by Mayan people in Alta Verapaz, with its 9meter long woven fibers representing life and gestation, it is an intrinsic part of traditional wear.

There is also ancestral ingredients and ceremonial objects in the wall sculpture with the black volcanic ash colored vases holding an allspice branch, as well as copal , the wooden vessels holding heirloom corn kernels intermixed with jade and pearls, coffee beans and all spice berries, anise and cinnamon, all in the four colors of the indigenous peoples flag." Guatemalan American artist Andrea Santizo.

Andrea Santizo