About this Event
Join us, along with our artist partners from Expressiones Cultural Center, to create an icon of Mexican culture and cultural imagination--the allegorical figure of the Mexican Magical Dog, using traditional cochineal dye. Cochineal dye is obtained from an insect that lives on the nopal cactus. The insect is dried, ground, and used to produce a palette of red-based colors.
According to the Aztecs, this xoloitzcuintli had magical powers to protect the living and guide the dead to the underworld. People kept these dogs as guardians during life, and when they died, the dogs were sacrificed and buried with them to guide them on their final journey.
Centered around the visual theme of the Mexican Magical Dog, participants in this 2-hour workshop will gain knowledge of using natural pigments such as coffee, fruits, flowers, and insects as tools for artistic expression-- particularly cochineal dye, which dates back to ancient southeastern Mexico, connecting with the cultural richness of Mesoamerica and its ancestors.
Space is limited. All materials will be provided.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
La Grua Center, 32 Water Street, Stonington, United States
USD 28.52
