Yesterday was full of adventure. My friend Bernie, pictured above, from New York, led me to the Textile Museum. An inspiring space, it is filled with engaging activities (for example a display in the children’s area explores feminine images and asks visitors to decide what is missing from the form of the woman of the 21st century depicted there), larger-than-life colors, and breathtaking details.
I have to admit that part of me usually suffers when I visit a museum with other people. However, this was an incredible feast for the eyes and a pleasant blend of tradition and experimentation, color and design.
I could go on and on about the wonders I found in just one of the exhibit spaces. The caracol (snail) room even makes me appreciate the word snail more for the beauty of this space. On one side of the room were the suits and provocative ties. The opposite featured beautiful gowns and intricate stilts that were enormous alebrijes. The blending of a variety of truly Oaxacan art forms demonstrates some of what is possible when these practices meld.
If someone is generous enough to offer to take you to this gallery, to this celebration: Go.
