Name: Mayan Textiles, Art, Tradition, and Technique
Start: 2025-10-10T09:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-10-10T17:00:00-05:00
Location: 1852 W 19th St, Chicago, IL, United States, Illinois 60608

Mayan Textiles, Art, Tradition, and Technique

Join us for a full-day cultural exchange, as part of Chicago Fashion Week, and explore the rich heritage of Mayan embroidery and artisanal techniques. This immersive event, in partnership with Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Muuch Creative, and Úuchben Bordado Textil, will be led by Úuchben Bordado Textil and the renowned brand of master artisan Blanca Itzá, an expert in the Mayan tradition. Together with Mildre Ramírez, they will present this workshop filled with color, history, and plenty of embroidery.
As a featured event of Chicago Fashion Week, the workshop offers a rare cultural perspective to the fashion world by honoring the artistry and heritage of Mayan textiles. The day will open with a welcome and introductions, setting the stage for an engaging exploration of Yucatecan embroidery and the introduction of two traditional stitches: Al revés Chuy and Xmolmiss—both examples of "puntadas de rescate," or rescued stitches, from the ancestral tradition of Mayan embroidery.
Through these hands-on workshops, participants will dive into these techniques' historical roots and modern relevance, gaining insight into their transformation and continued significance in Mayan communities today. Under Blanca’s expert guidance, attendees will learn to apply these stitches and uncover the symbolic meanings woven into each thread.
Whether you're a seasoned textile artist or someone who values cultural heritage, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to experience firsthand the intricate beauty and depth of Mayan embroidery—traditions seldom seen outside the Yucatán.
Lunch and breaks are included, allowing time for connection and reflection. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Don't miss this unique chance to engage with an ancient art form and celebrate the fusion of cultural legacy and contemporary fashion during Chicago Fashion Week.
9:00 am - 10:00 am: Opening remarks and introductions
10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Workshop 1 - Al revés Chuy: a Mayan artisanal technique of rescue.
12:00 pm - 12:45 pm: Lunch
12:45 pm - 2:45 pm Workshop 2: Xmolmiss: a Mayan artisanal technique of rescue.
2:45 pm - 3:00 pm: Break
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Workshop 2 continued - Xmolmiss: a Mayan artisanal technique of rescue.