Avenue 50 Studio presents

Arpilleras Story Quilts

Saturday, March 30, 2019. 11: 00 AM to 2:00 PM.

We invite you to learn about the history of arpilleras (‘burlap’ in Spanish) and how this beautiful art form has given voice to communities struggling with social and political repression. Arpilleras were used by Chilean women to document the repression of the people by the government of Augusto Pinochet after the overthrow of the democratically elected government of Salvador Allende. Arpilleras were used to let the world know what was happening inside the country:  the disappearance of loved ones, and the repression and killing of innocent people. Arpilleras also have historical connections to other Latin American countries where they are used to depict daily life.

We will review some of this history and participants will have the opportunity to design and make their own original arpilleras. Teachers will learn how they can integrate these beautiful art forms into their classrooms.  Participants will also look at how other cultures and communities use story quilts as a way to share history, teach cultural values, and depict social justice.  Most importantly, we will learn how arpilleras have been and can continue to be an active and creative art form of resistance against oppression.

Note: While this workshop provides salary hours to LAUSD teachers, it is open to ALL community members.  

Create three Arpilleras, learn their history and cultural context.
Teachers: learn to accommodate materials and instructions for multiple grade, ELD & ability levels.

Facilitated by Barbara Goldstein, Ph.D. and Lucia Vigil Francis, M.A.

Class fee: $65 (includes all materials)

To purchase a spot in the class, please click here.
For inquiries, please e-mail avenue50studio@gmail.com or call us at (323)258-1435