Hispanic Heritage Month and Indigenous People’s Day are often celebrated in October as separate events, but local artists Xelena González and Ceiba Ili see them inextricably linked. “We are a mixed people, a blended culture,” says Xelena. “The lotería tradition is one example since its linguistic roots are from Spain, yet it was our indigenous ancestors of Mexico who kept the tradition alive over centuries.”
At the October 20th event held at Chapel Auditorium, Xelena will premiere ... view more »
Hispanic Heritage Month and Indigenous People’s Day are often celebrated in October as separate events, but local artists Xelena González and Ceiba Ili see them inextricably linked. “We are a mixed people, a blended culture,” says Xelena. “The lotería tradition is one example since its linguistic roots are from Spain, yet it was our indigenous ancestors of Mexico who kept the tradition alive over centuries.”
At the October 20th event held at Chapel Auditorium, Xelena will premiere her latest writings associated with the lotería card deck. Calling her new series “The B Side,” Xelena says the rarely-seen images from the 1930’s include cards such as La Bruja, El Oso, Las Espuelas, and La Piñata. Her associated short writings, which include affirmations and “soul remedies,” will be interspersed with rounds of lotería games and themed prizes. Alongside this interactive reading, audiences will be treated to a live music set by indigenous vocalist and flutist Ceiba Ili.
“These two projects bring out the best in our community,” says Ceiba, who will be performing with the accompaniment of Jai Roots and other local musical luminaries. “Music lovers know the B Side of an album or tape is where we found the little known gems that never got enough attention – the soulful stuff from an artist’s heart,” explains Xelena, who served as Ceiba’s mentor during a recent Texas Folklife Apprenticeship program and considered their work complementary. “We saw this as an opportunity to share our work together with the community,” agrees Ceiba. “It will be something personal and special, so we hope to see everyone there.”
The event, which begins at 6pm, is sponsored in part by the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture, alongside Our Lady of the Lake University’s Center for Women in Church and Society, Center for Mexican American Studies and Research, and International Folk Cultural Center.
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