The Boruca

The Boruca are an indigenous people living in Costa Rica.  The tribe has about 2,600 members, most of whom live on a reservation in the Puntarenas province in southwestern Costa Rica.  Unfortunately, their language is nearly extinct.  Like their ancestors, the Boruca are known for their art and craftwork, especially the weaving and their distinctive painted balsa wood masks which have become popular among Costa Ricans and tourists.

We happened to come across a small Barucan gallery that shares space with a restaurant in Playa Del Coco.  The young woman working in the gallery showed a true passion for tribe, its culture, and of course their art.  She captivated us with her knowledge! And, of course, we bought a mask and a small woven purse.

All masks and woven products are created by hand, including the dyes and yarn which is spun on a wooden spindle.

              This is now our Barucan mask!  Look for it in our foyer when we get home!

This young woman, Grace, works at the gallery, and is closely associated with the Barucan.  She claims all money earned through the sale of Barucan art is returned to the village to help improve their way of life.  I surely hope so!!