Achuar Ceramics from Tradition to Contemporary Creation in the Ecuadorian Amazon

Abstract

As indicated by UNESCO, the heritage values of tangible and intangible cultural assets from the traditions of Ecuadorian Amazonian communities, such as the Achuar, must be preserved. The traditional domestic ceramics of these communities are among the artisanal creative typologies of tangible heritage that embody identity values warranting study. Archaeological ceramic products found in various archaeological campaigns in the Upano River valley and surrounding regions have revealed the artistic, historical, symbolic, and practical richness of these objects. This can inform criteria for new models that integrate these values and offer new commercial opportunities and enrichment for these indigenous communities. In this project, we have analyzed and studied the morphology, technology, and typology of the Amazonian ceramic tradition in these communities to propose ceramic designs that can benefit both the communities and external ceramicists and potters interested in preserving Ecuadorian artistic tradition.

Presenters

Maria Elena Perez Lopez
Teaching and Research Staff, Painting, Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Seville, Sevilla, Spain

Fernando Javier Poyatos-Jiménez
Professor, Painting and Conservation in Cultural Heritage, University of Seville, Sevilla, Spain

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

The Arts in Social, Political, and Community Life

KEYWORDS

Achuar, Ceramics, Conservation, Cultural Heritage, Ecuador