I purchased each of these directly from Kuna women in the San Blas Islands of Panama after staying there near Robinson's Island in 2006. These are loose sewn textiles (not sewn onto products shown and look larger, they are 8-9" ) they are perfect to sew onto a bag, sweatshirt, jacket, quilt, pillow or frame. Be creative!
Molas are intricately, hand-sewn, reverse-appliqué textile panels created by the indigenous Guna (formerly Kuna) women of Panama’s San Blas Islands. These colorful panels serve as the front and back of traditional blouses and often feature vibrant designs inspired by nature, including marine life like fish and turtles, as well as geometric patterns.
Key aspects of Kuna molas:
Technique: Layers of different-colored cloth are stitched together and cut away to form complex, detailed patterns.
Cultural Significance: Molas are a key part of traditional Guna women's clothing and represent cultural identity.
Imagery: While early designs were simple, modern molas often feature animals, marine creatures (like octopuses), daily life, and geometric designs.
Art and Commerce: Creating molas is a tradition passed down through generations, and they are now a significant art form sold to tourists, often representing themes like sea life or local flora and fauna.
The term mola translates to "clothing" or "blouse" in the Kuna language. They are not just decorative but represent a deep, traditional art form that has evolved over the last century.
