To Think With A Good Heart

By Stacy Schaefer

For centuries the Huichol Indian women of western Mexico, or Wix rika, as they prefer to call themselves, have been weaving textiles on backstrap looms. Since precolumbian times their family weaving traditions have been passed down from mother to daughter and from grandmother to granddaughter. Backstrap loom weaving is much more than either an art form or a means of creating utilitarian objects; it is a part of a woman's identity and a way of expressing ancient religious beliefs. Her weavings are a means to spiritual growth as well as a mirror of the changes and transformations she undergoes as she follows her life's path.

In 1985 Stacy Schaefer undertook ethnographic fieldwork apprenticing with master weavers in two Wax rika families. To Think with a Good Heart addresses both the technology of weaving as well the dramas and personalities in a community. This a fascinating journey into a realm of ancient beliefs and traditions woven into the story of a way of life constantly threatened by the outside world.

From the book: To become a weaver is to learn the women's customs, for weaving is the reason for living. When you are teaching yourself to weave you are given the power to think with the gods. It is a very beautiful thing to think this way, because weaving is very ancient. That's how I think.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 087480695X
• ISBN13: 9780874806953
• Release Date: May 2002
• Publisher: University of Utah Press
• Length: 376 Pages
• Weight: 1.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 1.2" x 7.0"
• Age Range: All ages
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

A must read for students of Huichol culture

A very interesting book. For anyone interested in Huichol culture. Explores the world of the Huichol women with great insight. Also an easy read.