Mexico City — A unique selection of Mexican crafts is being showcased in an online-only exhibition, hosted by Artefacto, a website dedicated to the promotion of Mexican culture and indigenous arts. It is the first exhibition created by Mexico City-based independent curator Juan L. Scott. It will be hosted online through Artefacto’s website from September 5, 2020, onwards, debuting a curatorial career dedicated to Mexican crafts and sustainability in Mexico.
Driven by the urge to address environmental issues and raise awareness of the value of existing craft traditions across the country, the exhibition will showcase a selection of craft from Artefacto’s collection, providing valuable insights into low-impact traditional Mexican crafts.
The artworks on display are made primarily by indigenous craft-people who are acutely aware of their place within the world and have a deeply embedded understanding that humans are the protectors of the earth.
The exhibits encompass crafts from across Mexico and include natural fibres, wood, stone and pottery items. The crafts represent various cultures from across the country including Otomi from Hidalgo; Zapotec from Oaxaca; Chontal from Tabasco; Popoloca from Puebla; Náhuatl from Colima and Hidalgo; Purépecha from Michoacán; and Maya from Yucatán.
I firmly believe in the power of art and design to improve our lives and the environment. My mission is to share my expertise and private craft collection to inspire and raise awareness about the significance of Mexican crafts through design, digital technologies, events and exhibitions like this one.
Over the years, I have collected crafts that are truly authentic and in harmony with nature. That alone makes these objects interesting and valuable. Sadly, modern societies have long ignored these beautiful works and worse, have discriminated against their makers. I wish to share the passion and enthusiasm I have grown for Mexican crafts, and I am pleased to debut my first-ever curated exhibition.