The art and politics of Mexican textiles: talk by Itzel Silva
Schedule
Sat Jun 21 2025 at 02:00 pm to 03:00 pm
UTC+10:00Location
42 View Street, Bendigo, VIC, Australia, Victoria 3550 | Bendigo, VI
Mexican clothing and handicraft traditions have long been prominent elements of local and national anti-colonial movements, in the ‘mexicanidad’ of Frida Kahlo’s era and still today.
Though she is best known for her adoption of the traditional dress of Tehuana women from the Isthmus of Mexico, Frida Kahlo wore garments created by artisans from numerous regions and cultures.
In this talk, Mexican textile collector and enthusiast Itzel Silva will explore some of the weaving, embroidery, stitching, and embellishment techniques used across Mexican textiles and jewellery, and highlight key symbols and motifs which appear in traditional designs. She will share insights into the modern threats of appropriation and mass production in the global fashion industry, how ethical and sustainable contemporary designers and traders are engaged with artisanal communities, and the importance of these collaborations thriving into the future. Itzel will bring selected pieces from her collection for attendees to view up close.
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Image by Laura Alicia Gozalez
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Where is it happening?
42 View Street, Bendigo, VIC, Australia, Victoria 3550Event Location & Nearby Stays: