STOCKTON – The gala opening reception for a special exhibition showcasing the Mexican equestrian culture is being planned at the Haggin Museum in Stockton.
The event officially marking beginning of “Charrería: The Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture” will be 6 to 9 p.m. Sept. 22, and will feature live music, food and drink, including tequila, wine and beer. The exhibition will be Sept. 20 to Dec. 6.
The special exhibition presents the exquisite artisanship of Mexican craft with more than 150 objects designed specifically for the charro, or Mexican cowboy. Leather work, costumes, textiles, and silver and iron work illustrate the life of these revered horsemen. Many of these items were utilitarian in origin, but have been transformed into detailed artwork that embody the identity of the Mexican nation.
One of Mexico’s most important cultural traditions, the Charrería, stems from the Spanish-inspired charreada, which is a festive event similar to an American rodeo in its variety of competitive equestrian activities. As in the American “rodeo culture,” Charrería extends beyond horses and riders to include aspects such as costume, music, and food that bring a uniquely Latino culture to a sport that has its roots in Spain.
The exhibition reflects the charros’ passion for their vocation and the beauty of this culture. The splendor of the objects themselves is revealed, as well as the social processes that consecrate this tradition of civic spirit, and connect the artisans as an essential part of the art of the charro. Today, Charrería continues as a culture, tradition, sport and art, both in Mexico and abroad.
“Charrería: The Artisanship of Mexican Equestrian Culture” is organized by International Arts and Artists, Washington, DC, in collaboration with Marisú González Germán and Gabriel Cabello Martínez.
