Huipil, 1970s–1980s. Velvet hand-embroidered with cotton thread, using a long and short stitch

Huipil, 1970s–1980s. Velvet hand-embroidered with cotton thread, using a long and short stitch. Cotton lining. Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Zapotec community. Collection María Isabel Grañén Porrúa / Museo Textil de Oaxaca.

Mar 1- 19, Weaving Diversity: Textiles from Oaxaca, Mexican Cultural Institute, 2829 16th Street, NW Washington D.C.

The Mexican Cultural Institute gallery spaces are showing an extraordinary exhibition of textiles from the Textile Museum of Oaxaca. Representing three important collections from the Textile Museum of Oaxaca, the elaborate pieces on display will showcase historical indigenous attire worn since the 1950´s, as well as creations that feature unique weaving techniques and original textures. Curated by Alejandro de Ávila, this exhibition is the result of decades of travel, discovery and collecting on the part of ardent proponents of the Mexican textile and popular art tradition. The pieces featured in the show will also be for sale, with the proceeds going directly to sustainable development projects organized around the design, production and marketing of textiles to benefit the indigenous communities of Oaxaca and ensure the continuation of the tradition. The Textile Museum of Oaxaca is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of textiles from Mexico and around the world, and makes use of its gallery spaces, conservation laboratory and library to preserve this rich legacy.

Alebrije, by Angélico Jiménez Felino, 2006.

Alebrije, by Angélico Jiménez Felino, 2006. Madera de cedro tallada y policromada, 40 x 60 x 40 cm.

Mar 1-19, Oaxaca: Masters of Folk Art, Mexican Cultural Institute, 2829 16th Street, NW Washington D.C.

This exhibit features the impressive work of 38 of the finest artisans in the state of Oaxaca and highlights the rich folk art tradition of communities throughout the region in a variety of media. Ranging from spectacular wood carvings to intricately detailed pottery work, from elegant metal work to delicate filigreed jewelry, the exhibition demonstrates the vibrancy, talent, and strong artistic legacy that characterizes Oaxaca and marks it as one of the most exciting and diverse states in Mexico.  The state of Oaxaca has had a long and renowned folk art tradition; don’t miss this rare opportunity to enrich your perspective on what you thought you knew about Mexican folk art. Each object was specially selected for its high quality, the degree to which it represents deep-rooted artistic traditions, and its aesthetic appeal.  All of the artisans represented have been given the designation of “Grand Master of Folk Art” by Fomento Cultural Banamex and the exhibition gives an in-depth look at these talented artists and their production methods, shining a spotlight on the human faces behind these marvelous creations.