"Armadillos are often seen as a symbol of protection. In many Native American cultures, they are believed to be able to ward off evil spirits. They are also associated with new beginnings, as they are one of the first animals to appear after a fire. Additionally, armadillos are seen as a symbol of adaptability."
Some Pacific Northwest Native American women identify three primary stages in life: birth, finding a guardian spirit, and death. The tradition of finding one’s spirit is a rite that forms a common bond within the community, while simultaneously defining an individual’s personal identity.
Maíz depicts an indigenous woman who believes that her spirit guide is the Goddess of Maize. She wears symbols on her clothing - water, wind, and sun. These are elements that produce maize, a sacred food for her people. She is using a metate to grind and process the grain for tortillas. She carries her baby with her while she works, wrapped up in a rebozo. It’s important to have an understanding of the food we eat, especially when we have children.
