Artist unknown, Dancers, c. 1980s, cotton, 15 x 19.5 inches; private collection 

Even with the 21st century fast approaching, most Kuna Indians of Panama largely adhere to their traditional way of life. Inhabiting some 50 islands off of Panama's Caribbean coast, the Kuna live in cane-and-thatch houses, sleep in hammocks, and travel by dugout to fetch drinking water from mainland rivers. Molas, the beautiful, decorative panels that comprise the front and back of Kuna women's blouses, have gained world renown as textile art.

Kuna Mola: Maintaining Tradition Amid Change provides insight into the material culture and traditions of the Kuna Indians through a collection of 50 molas, 15 color photographs, and supporting objects. The exhibition examines the mola as both textile art and cultural artifact. It also examines the Kuna lifestyle within the larger issue of maintaining tradition in the face of immense forces for change. Although they have been successful in adhering to their traditional ways, the Kuna have not stood still. This exhibition examines how they are changing and how they are holding their ground.

Molas are created by a reverse applique process in which two to five layers of cloth are basted together, then patterns cut through the layers, exposing the cloth below. Construction ranges from the simple to the complex. Designs run the gamut from geometric patterns and ritual objects, to Christian symbols, Spanish and English words, cartoon characters, and even advertising logos.

Any viewer interested in textiles, in crafts, or in exhibitions with multicultural themes will be fascinated by Kuna Mola. With Panama taking control of the Canal Zone in January 2000, international attention will be focused on that country, making this a very timely exhibition.