Traditional Art in a Modern World: A Conversation with Porfirio Gutiérrez

Join us for an afternoon panel conversation with Porfirio Gutierrez, a contemporary indigenous Oaxacan artist using traditional textile methods, who is featured in the exhibition Chromatopia: Stories of Color in Art. Hear from Gutierrez and cultural leaders Dr. Julia Kushigian, Professor of Hispanic Studies at Connecticut College, Manuel Lizarralde, Professor of Botany at Connecticut College, and Lina Agudelo, Director of the Hispanic Alliance of Southeastern Connecticut.

The use of natural materials for pigments, like the cochineal insect, in Oaxaca has cross cultural and interdisciplinary significance as it reflects native artmaking traditions, the complex history of colonialism in North America, 17th-21st century global trade, and a contemporary return to natural materials and traditional creative methods. The discussion will focus on aspects of Gutierrez’s process and knowledge that illustrate wider points about the intersection of indigenous peoples and colonial powers, balanced use of natural resources, and the continued threat to traditional lifeways and knowledge by market forces.

Please note: The artist will have works available for purchase.

For more information and to reserve a spot Click Here.