By Barbara Erickson

 

Master Zapotec weaver Jacobo Mendoza returns for the first time in two years to show and sell his masterpiece rugs and wall hangings for the Day of the Dead celebrations at Casa de la Cuesta B&B. Friday, October 29, through Monday, November 1, visitors can enjoy a Day of the Dead Extravaganza. Each day at 1 pm Heidi LeVasseur will give an informative talk on the traditions of Day of the Dead in front of her stunning personal altar. From 1:30–4:30pm Jacobo Mendoza will show his weavings and give talks on natural dyes and Oaxacan folk art carver Blanca Gomez will display and sell her whimsical carved alebrije figures and paintings.

 

As a special treat, Another Face of Mexico / Otra Cara de Mexico Mask Museum, which hosts a special collection of 650 ceremonial masks, will be open to the public during the show. There are select masks for sale as well.

 

There is no admission fee for the Mask Museum, Altar Talks, or Exhibitions. Masks are required. On Sunday and Monday between 2–4pm, you can have your face painted. Please come wearing your mask.

 

Mendoza is internationally acknowledged as a master weaver and slow dye expert; his works are held in museums and private collections in Mexico and abroad. This show will feature both his most recent superb fine wall pieces woven with silk, alpaca, and cashmere wool with gold and silver threads and his very reasonably priced traditional rugs for floors and hanging. His weaving patterns run the gamut from complex Zapotec imagery to geometric modern pieces at home in any setting. All of the yarns are meticulously hand dyed using only natural materials, some of which Jacobo himself discovered as dye stuff.

 

Mendoza has won numerous awards for his extraordinary weavings, including first prizes in Mexican concursos. Whether you are in the market for a one-of-a-kind wall hanging, a rug for your dining room or bedside, or interested in what Zapotec imagery looks and feels like expressed in a fine weaving, a visit to see Mendoza’s work will please. Jacobo will also be available for private showings and sales. He does take orders… by appointment October 28. Please call for an appointment or additional information at 415 154 4324.

 

Blanca Gomez’s roots are in Oaxaca’s wood carving village of Arrazola. Here in San Miguel she continues the folkloric tradition of painting whimsical carved creatures as well as small paintings and other delightful items, easy to pack and give as charming Mexican gifts.