Post #3: Aztec Masks

(PICTURE OF MASK TAKEN FROM MASK POWERPOINT)

This mask is a beautiful piece of art that evokes many feelings and tells quite a bit about the Aztec culture. Physically, the mask is made up of some sort of turquoise stone arranged in a mosaic pattern. The mask could possibly be made of jade, but I am not certain just by looking at the image. One extremely fascinating feature of this mask is that the eyes and teeth seem to be made of some light ceramic, polished material. In looking through the pictures of the mask, I noticed that some of them had actual human parts, such as teeth and skull parts, attached to the foundation of the mask. With this in mind, I assumed that the artist of this mask was also going for that same authentic effect, as by first glance, the teeth and eye whites look as though they are from the real parts of a human being. I think this represents the violent nature of the Aztec civilization. A civilization filled with wars and violence, it would seem as though these human extractions are from human sacrifices (possibly of war).
In a more interpretive sense, I feel as though this mask evokes very powerful emotions and feelings. To me, there is a certain sense of sadness in the eyes of the person that this mask represents. The eyes droop every so slightly and seem to peer at you when you look at them with a sense of fear or exhaustion (for whatever reason). At the same time however, the mask also radiates with the shine of the turquoise and ceramic qualities, which seems to evoke a sense of wealth and radiance and celebration. This mask could possibly be representing an Aztec deity, but I am not completely certain. The features of the mask are very realistic and seem to be a representation of a human figure, but that could also be varied into the supernatural spectrum. Overall, I think that this mask is a beautiful piece of Aztec art that evokes many feelings that can vary based on how you look at the piece as well as based on your own personal beliefs of what the artist was trying to convey with the mask.

Post #2: The Mayan Way of Life

I think it is amazing that the Mayan people have tried to maintain a similar, peaceful way of life as they have been doing for generations. I admire the strength of these people and the courage that they have, because unfortunately, society has forced them to be cautious with expressing their cultural identities and living the way that they truly desire.
Mayans today face many problems concerning the government, rebel groups, and society in general. Certain people seem to be aimed at destroying the way of life that the Mayans have worked so hard to maintain, which is extremely tragic. It is horrible that what once was an amazing ancient civilization filled with culture and reverence has now come to what the contemporary Mayans face today.
Many organizations, including the Mexican government and various revel organizations have been attacking the Mayans and their identities. The Mayans are still looked at as "dirty," " stupid" "indians" who do not deserve to be respected. As a result, constant efforts (both violent and nonviolent) have been underway to ruin the Mayan way of life.
This racism and discrimination for the Mayans not only causes violence and physical distraught, but also effects every aspect of these people's day to day lives. It is difficult for these people to get study jobs, maintain stable living situations, or even simply be able to wear what they desire (certain attire can reveal their Mayan roots).
It is ridiculous that all this discrimination has stemmed from the racism from the Spaniards in Ancient Mayan times. This situation just proves how strong racism and the concept of identity and representation can pertain through time. People should not be judged because of their ancestral roots or their skin color. The remedy for this sort of issue is a slow and taxing process.
In examining this issue further, I believe the only remedy to this issue is to, like many have been trying to do already, change the perception and image of the Mayans to others in society. This seems to be an extremely difficult and taxing process that would take years and years and years to even start to make concrete changes for. Political reform is needed, along with a general change of spirit concerning the Mayans. I admire people like Rigoberta Menchu, because it is that sort of bravery and courage to expose all that the Mayans have endured to the mainstream world that will start to make a difference and change the situation. In an ideal world, the Mayans will be looked at by all as the amazing and unique individuals they are, and will be able to celebrate their ancient Mayan ancestors with pride and freedom.