PPottery as a cultural expression in the district of Huancas, Amazonas region

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze pottery as a cultural manifestation of the Huancas community. For this purpose, data were collected in situ on the characteristics of Huancas pottery: forms, techniques and ornamental motifs, highlighting the tradition and cultural identity they express. This is basic descriptive research, which used a questionnaire as an instrument to collect information from a sample of 35 people linked to the pottery activity in the community of Huancas. The results revealed that pottery in this community constitutes a fundamental element of women's cultural heritage, transmitted from generation to generation. Notably, 59% of the craftswomen acquire their knowledge from their mothers, while 13% inherit it from their grandmothers, highlighting the relevant contribution of the female gender to the continuity of this craft tradition. The ceramic objects produced are mostly utilitarian, including pots, flowerpots and vases, as well as the so-called "chochos", large vessels for storing water or guarapo. Beyond its role in affirming cultural identity, Huancas pottery also acts as a driver of tourism, fostering local economic development and the preservation of cultural heritage. This study underlines the need for an integral management to guarantee the preservation and sustainable promotion of the pottery activity in Huancas, positioning it as an attractive tourist destination for the benefit of the community.