Yesterday I posted about two of the venues for the International Shibori Conference that was held in Oaxaca during our visit. Today I will share my impressions of CASA - the Center for the Arts of San Agustin. Located in San Agustin, Etla, a short ride outside of the city of Oaxaca, this former textile hacienda built in 1883 is palatial. Founded by José Zorrila Trapaga, the location is also known as Vista Hermosa - Beautiful View - and oh my goodness, does it ever have the most gorgeous views of the mountains and valleys!
I am in love with the architecture of the place itself, with wide open floors that used to house the textile manufacturing business. Can you imagine weaving here, with these views! A few remnants of the old weaving concern still remain as homage to the building's past.
The former industrial weaving floor, now the best dance hall ever!
Downstairs from the old weaving floor was another expansive space, and here is where the biggest exhibit from the shibori conference was held. Work by contemporary textile artists from around the world represented the best in shibori, ikat, boro, and other surface design techniques. I'll share just a sampling of the artwork, with apologies again to all the artists whose names I neglected to write down. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy.
Dyework on velvet by a Swedish artist.
Paper airplane folds make for the most interesting shibori patterns! by Ana Lisa Hedstrom
I loved how color and pattern showed through the transparency of these cloths.
Love the title of this piece: Boro rebelde - Rebel Boro! by Argentine artist Paulina González Villán
Neha Puri Dhir of India created this piece, Melange Wrap. It's also reminiscent of boro cloth, with machine quilting and sashiko stitching.
View of one end of the exhibit, all in shades of indigo
And finally, some parting shots from CASA and San Agustin.
The folly, located outside the main building of the hacienda.
One of the beautiful hand-dyed shibori kimonos on display inside the folly.
The hacienda's pink water fountain
And more pink, on the door of Las delicias de Sherezad (the delights of Sheherezade) - the restaurant where we had the most delicious lunch served by the Syrian French chef. Exquisite!