National Museum of Mexican Art- Jessica Oliva Navarro, Week 1

 


Hello everyone!


This week my principal assignment has been to assist with NMMA’s Bilingual Summer Camp. My tasks have included creating icebreakers, assisting campers with completing their projects, aiding Leslie (who leads the folkloric dance class), and drafting daily emails informing all staff about the events/takeaways of each day. Christian and I have also been tasked with adding to the NMMA en Casa series. This workshop series allows individuals of all ages to expand their knowledge of Mexican culture. Each video, employing Spanish and English, features an art and craft that can be accomplished with simple materials. Some past examples include mini Otomi ornaments and paper mâché sugar skulls. By the end of week two, Christian and I will upload our video that highlights a historical event, period, or Mexican artist. Although we are still in the brainstorming process of our topic, I am particularly inspired by the Árbol de la Vida (1999) by Francisco Flores [NMMA] and the Tree of Life by Verónica Castillo [NMAL]. 



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My experiences have demonstrated that the inner workings of cultural organizations are complex. Also, in order to operate, teamwork plays a crucial role. Consequently, collaboration occurs more often than independent work. Furthermore, my knowledge of education programming has increased. To better explain, I have noted the activities NMMA staff have introduced to campers. Some examples include self-portraits, still life drawings utilizing charcoal, and printmaking. All have related to storytelling in one way or the other. These projects have kept campers not only engaged but challenged as well. Also, I was exposed to the roles of museum educators and the vast knowledge they need to maintain and effectively communicate.

 

Additionally, through conversations with Marilyn, the Education Program Coordinator/Art Educator, and Leslie, I have been introduced to two programs facilitated by the National Museum of Mexican Art: Community Arts Sustaining Academics (CASA) and Yollocalli Arts Reach. Both programs provide necessary resources for teens and young adults in Little Village and Pilsen neighborhoods to explore their identity and expand their creativity. They offer free visual art, performing, and digital media programming classes. From a journalism/radio production program to an Aztec Dance and Permaculture program, Yollocalli Arts Reach generates opportunities for career development and free expression. Furthermore, as a youth mentor for NMMA’s Bilingual Summer Camp, I have interacted with youth daily, encouraging them to value their ideas. Similarly, both YAP and the Washington Week experience have achieved the goal of empowering young Latino leaders. By listening to various guest speakers and visiting the Molina Family Gallery, I continue to feel represented and empowered.


During week two I hope to finish my NMMA en Casa video and become more involved with CASA, Yollocalli, and other NMMA departments. I am beyond grateful to YAP for allowing me to develop my identity and form strong connections. 


Best, Jessica Oliva Navarro 

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