Quetzalcoatl: Make an Alebrije with Ceci Tejeda

Fee: $100/$85 members (all materials included)
Registration: Suitable for ages 12 and up. Space is limited; advance registration required. Online registration is closed. Register by phone at 414-446-8794.

Making cartonería— papier mache sculptures—is a traditional Mexican paper-based craft. Among the varieties of cartonería are alebrijes, statues of colorful and mythical creatures. Cartonera Ceci Tejeda will immerse us in the Mesoamerican legend and traditions of the powerful Aztec deity Quetzalcoatl, who was transformed into a feathered serpent. You will create your own Quetzalcoat alebrije using traditional cartonería techniques. No experience necessary; suitable for adults and children 12 and up.

Pack a lunch and some beverages, and dress appropriately if you want to walk outside during the lunch break.

About the Artist
Ceci Tejeda was born and raised in Mexico City. Her parents are from Michoacán, Mexico, which is why she has Purepecha (Indigenous) blood in her veins. Ceci has admired her culture since she was a very young girl. When she first came to Wisconsin, it was difficult to adapt, but she never lost her love for creativity. Now that she has lived here for more than 10 years, she still embraces her roots and enjoys sharing them with others. She creates her papier-mâché alebrijes and skulls with joy and love and shares her papier-mâché skills with future generations through youth workshops at schools and cultural events. Ceci advocates for immigrant rights by volunteering for and using her artistic abilities to support Voces de la Frontera, a local immigrant rights group. She also collaborates with other Latinx artists in las R.A.R.A.S, a local artist collective. This work creates a sense of home by making her feel closer to her people, her culture, and herself. Participating in events for local artists supported by her community helps her to realize that no matter where she is, she can carry her roots with her.