Indigenous tradition, change, and uncertainty in western Honduras: how Lenca potters maintain craft production livelihoods in the face of socioeconomic development

Abstract

ABSTRACT For the indigenous Lenca people of western Honduras, pottery production represents an economically and spiritually important tradition. Historically exchanged in regional trade networks, pottery is still produced today. However, this tradition is changing due to socioeconomic and political development. Lenca pottery has shifted from utilitarian wares to more aesthetic pieces favored by tourists – a change encouraged by state constructions of national identity. Promotion of what are considered ‘marketable’ indigenous crafts and attractions in the tourism industry has resulted in misconceptions among domestic and international tourists regarding distinct indigenous tradition – like Lenca pottery. Drawing on nine months of fieldwork in the Lenca community of La Campa, Lempira, this research note examines how contemporary pottery tradition may be shaped by state constructions of indigenous heritage and identity, which are reproduced through the national tourism industry. Through the application of neoliberal multiculturalism, this work explores how these political processes restrict Lenca craft producers from benefitting from tourism. To conclude, this article presents empirical evidence suggesting that despite these obstacles, Lenca artisans in La Campa maintain pottery production as a livelihood through innovative choices in altering selling and production methods.