Huichol Winter

Description

Huichol Test (pronounced We-Choll)

For the 2017/2018 Winter test sessions, Valentino Rossi used a helmet with a design based on Mexican Huichol ‘bead art’. The Huichol tribe use many symbols in their artwork i.e. the sun and moon, flowers, turtle, snakes etc. to represent the world of the Shamon and their spiritual harmony.

As soon as I saw the helmet, I knew I had to try and create something that reflected many of Valentino’s symbols. Again a bright vibrant piece that gives you that link to the most poular guy in the paddock, without it a bike in sight.

The whole project, from start to finish, took about 3 months!! Over 21,000 individually placed dots make up the picture.

Limited edition of 46

The symbols and their meanings –

Colours – White = cloud spirit, Red = fire/masculinity, Blue = Pacific Ocean, water & rain, Green = earth heavens, healing, Yellow = a special root, Orange – Wirikuta (the sacred land.

Sun & Moon – Valentino has used these throughout his career to represent the two sides of his personality. Sun in the Mexicans art represents light and illumination to the world.

The Turtle – has been used by Valentino for many years – a mascot from minimoto as a child. However, the Mexicans ‘Huichol Turtle, in their art is responsible for replenishing water springs and to give purity to all water sources.

Red Heart – Valentino used this in 2007 to show his fans his appreciation for their support.

Flowers – play a part in Huichol ceremonies – sacred in healing rituals.

Peyoto Cacti Flower – symbol for life, health, success.

Snakes – Instruct Shamon to become healers.

Wavy lines – Paths of Life.

Triangle, Circle, Square – 3 primary colours on primary shapes represent the human search for perfection.