Ed Rossbach, San Blas, 1967, cotton and linen, 72 x 70 in. (182.9 x 177.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Lisa and Dudley Anderson, 1994.54
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Artwork Details
- Title
- San Blas
- Artist
- Date
- 1967
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 72 x 70 in. (182.9 x 177.8 cm.)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Lisa and Dudley Anderson
- Mediums Description
- cotton and linen
- Classifications
- Subjects
- 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.