*This exhibit is no longer active at Mingei Museum*

Throughout the summer Mingei Museum was holding $5 admission on Fridays. I was overdo for a museum visit so I got dressed up and took myself over to Balboa Park!

It’s a smaller museum with a majority of the gallery on the second floor. I rarely come here, I was fully expecting an arrangement of paintings. I was pleasantly surprised by two mannequins dressed in traditional Mexican outfits.

Taking main stage was the Fashioning an Icon: Virgin of Guadalupe Imagery in Textile Design Exhibit curated by Ariana Torres.

I didn’t really grow up religious. When I would visit my grandmother we would go to the church for special events or holidays. Yet, I’ve always been intrigued by apparitions and iconography. They can vary so much depending on the region.

I was blown away by the craftsmanship and detail in all the textiles here! Here the distinct styles among the artists can be seen in the colors, patterns, and textures.

This was a collection of objects – mostly traditional textiles showcasing la Virgen through different mediums.

I learned the story of La Virgen and how she became such an important symbol to Mexican culture. It’s a reminder in how we can find unity in symbols and icons to get through difficult times.

My FAVORITE! PIECE! RIGHT HERE! I’m always going to be attracted to the jewelry and accessories section of ANY place I go.

But this necklace is e v e r y t h i n g . Don’t forget the scarf cuffs on the side?? The beading, the different colored stone. So much detail, truly a beautiful and unique piece!

Literally hide this from Zara, Free People and Anthropologie… No shade ! Because in the end of the day I would be lying if I said I don’t shop there.

Apparitions are representative of a culture, here, the virgin Mary is takes on a more indigenous appearance. What she wears in these depictions also represent the traditional clothes worn at the time.

It really made me think about how far and wide la virgin’s impact is. Yes, we can see 70 artists showcased in this museum. But, I think about the many ways she shows up for other people, to give them strength and comfort. It could be a parent buying a gold pendant representing her. Maybe, a grandmother hand embroidering her on clothing for her family.

Well, I left the exhibit with a deeper understanding of Mexican culture. You can really feel the deep love and respect for la Virgen through these pieces. In fact, I also felt a deep adoration for her. She is so beautiful in the way she is represented, along with her gentle smile, strong yet silent demeanor. I was like wow I really need to tap into that energy a bit more….

I spent a lot of time with my grandmothers looking through traditional Bulgarian folk costume. As a result, exploring other traditional folk costume and art throughout the world is a little hobby of mine. This has been a wake-up call that though… Although I enjoy looking – I have a really shallow understanding of it.. EEK!

I really hope they bring back $5 admission on Fridays. I think they should also consider hosting late evening admission to encourage more adults to come to the museum.

How do you define an icon?

What skills, interest or traditions have been passed down in your family? What makes a craft or art “authentic”?

Here is the full set of photos I took!! Please enjoy and leave your thoughts down below!