San Blas

Ed Rossbach, San Blas, 1967, cotton and linen, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Lisa and Dudley Anderson, 1994.54
Copied Ed Rossbach, San Blas, 1967, cotton and linen, 7270 in. (182.9177.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Lisa and Dudley Anderson, 1994.54

Artwork Details

Title
San Blas
Artist
Date
1967
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
7270 in. (182.9177.8 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Lisa and Dudley Anderson
Mediums
Mediums Description
cotton and linen
Classifications
Keywords
  • Abstract — geometric
  • Object — flower
Object Number
1994.54

Artwork Description

The San Blas Archipelago is a group of around four hundred islands off the coast of Panama. The islands are famous for molas, the traditional dress worn by the women of the Kuna Indian tribe. Ed Rossbach was inspired by the vivid colors and elaborate designs used by the Kuna women, and wove San Blas to evoke these native garments. The piece combines brightly colored lines, curves, and flowers to form a cheerful composition, calling to mind the tropical culture of the islands of Panama.