Banderaware. Courtesy photo
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara’s Casa Dolores — Center for the Study of Popular Arts of Mexico is presenting “Banderaware — Colores of a Republic” through May 31 at 1023 Bath St., Santa Barbara.
The exhibit opened Feb. 24.
“Banderaware” pottery represents the colors of la bandera, the Mexican flag: green, white and red. Red is commonly used as background color, while green and white are used for decorative details which may feature flora and fauna common to Mexico, in particular deer and birds.
The pottery originates in Tonalá and is used for utilitarian purposes. It is first coated with red engobe and then decorated with white. After firing, more designs are added in a green aniline dye, thereby representing the three colors of the Mexican flag. Banderaware’s luster comes from two different sources: some pieces may be rubbed with animal grease before firing, while some artisans paint the pieces twice with red engobe.
The center is open from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free. Visit http://www.casadolores.org/upcoming-exhibitions.html for more information.