About the Mola

The first glimpse of a mola gives the viewer an instant and lasting impression of the enchanting culture and rich history of the Cuna.

The mola is a cherished piece of artwork that represents the colorful nature of its creator and her traditions. The Cuna have an innate sense of beauty evident in the composition of these intricate depictions of their way of life. 

The roots of the mola stem from women painting their bodies with geometric patterns. As outside influences visited the Cuna, the body paintings evolved into cloth panels. These panels were then mounted onto cotton shirts which became a part of what is currently accepted as the Cuna women’s traditional dress. The mola is also  powerful symbol of the independence of the Cuna and their struggle to preserve the old ways despite the pressure of modernization.

Each mola is an absolutely unique creation. The artist, typically female, uses various inspirations from her    environment as well as from her own psyche to provide substance for her artwork. The territory of the Cuna is ripe with exotic flora and fauna, often the subject of molas. Images of various birds, insects, fish, jaguars, and other jungle creatures may decorate mola canvases. The artist may choose to depict scenes from everyday Cuna life.

Dreams also provide a vivid inspiration for many incredible molas. Religious themes can be incorporated into a mola composition, ranging from the original indigenous spiritual beliefs to the dominating Catholic ideology in the Central American region.  Cuna artists have also been known to incorporate current political themes into their artwork as well as more contemporary images such as popular cartoon characters.

Perhaps the most evocative expressions of mola art are still found in the amazing abstract patterns, as artists honor  old traditions with ever-evolving original designs.

A recent innovation is commissioned mola art. Hopefully this practice will allow Cuna artists to reach a much wider audience without compromising tradition or quality. 

A commissioned  non-traditional mola  (approximately 28" x 28" )

A traditional mola is assembled by means of the reverse appliqué technique. This method involves the use of several layers of fabric with specific images cut out of the top layers revealing the more colorful layers underneath. The layers are then intricately stitched together. This process is quite time consuming, especially as the complexity of the scene increases.

Color is an integral part of the mola. A black cloth panel most often provides the main visual backdrop for the piece. The artist then chooses different colors for her particular subject often opting for the most vibrant, eye-catching selections. Favorite traditional colors include red, orange, yellow, and green. Pink, blue, and turquoise have been in more frequent use as of late due to these colors’ popularity among tourists.

The tourist trade has also sparked increasing artistic experimentation.  A number of new molas incorporate elaborate embroidery and conventional appliqué.  As with traditional molas, results depend entirely on the talent and skill of the artist.  We're confident successful developments will eventually turn into new Cuna traditions.

Molas make an incredible decorative addition to any space. They add a spectacular splash of color and culture to your environment. Mola purses and tote bags add a personalized flair to your wardrobe. Kitchens can also be brightened with mola oven mitts and potholders.  These  lovely creations bring the look and feel of the vibrant Cuna culture right into your home.