Mingei International Museum presents ‘Fashioning an Icon’ inspired by Virgin of Guadalupe

DOWNTOWN – The Mingei International Museum is presenting Fashioning an Icon: Virgin of Guadalupe Imagery in Textile Design.

This powerful and colorful exhibit features creative works in textiles, clothing and accessories inspired by the Virgin of Guadalupe – a symbol of motherhood, hope and Mexican identity. She represents a blend of indigenous and Christian traditions and is deeply rooted in cultural pride.

The exhibition features more than 70 artists from Mexico along with many talented local artists who share their interpretation of the Virgin of Guadalupe, also known as Our Lady of Guadalupe or la Virgen.

One standout is San Diego artist Claudia Rodriguez-Biezunski, whose piece, Guadalajara, is made from upcycled materials such as suede, leather and cotton flannel. Rodriguez-Biezunski runs a slow fashion business called Sew Loka, located in the Chicano Park neighborhood of Barrio Logan. You can visit her installation outside the museum located in a special niche on the east side of Plaza de Panama.

Another local artist, Chicana photographer Arianna Ytselle, contributed 30 photos taken around San Diego and Tijuana that feature more than 15 local artists. Her work shows how the image of the Virgin visually changes throughout our diverse community.

Don’t miss the piece by pinata artist and museum education specialist, Diana Benavidez, who uses her art to tell stories about social and political issues. Her work, Even Guadalupe Needs a Break, features a colorful crepe paper clock hanging on a coat rack. It cleverly suggests that even the Virgin needs a break from performing her miracles nonstop.

The exhibit was curated by Ariana Torres, an expert in art historical research and collections. Her thoughtful curation helps visitors understand the cultural impact and modern interpretations of this important icon.

Want more to explore at the Mingei, check out two other exciting exhibits:

• Historic Footprints – Features Native American ledger drawings from Fort Marion in Florida.
• Across the Spooniverse – Displays over 100 spoons from around the world, showing how this everyday object connects to different cultures.

Fashioning an Icon runs through Sept. 7 while the other two exhibits are open through Aug. 17. The museum is closed on Mondays, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Fridays. For more details, visit www.mingei.org.

Upcoming events

Friday, May 16 – 44th Annual Golden Scissors Fashion Show from 5-7 p.m. on campus in the Mesa Quad. Runway show with students’ work. VIP reception begins at 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit the site.

Saturday, May 31 – The Razkal Market and Fashion Show with 40-plus vendors. It will be located at Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center from noon to 6 p.m. For tickets, visit the site.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher and podcaster at www.dianacavagnaro.co.