I recently had the opportunity to attend a two-week residency at Casa El Framboyan in Merida Mexico. I went there to research the henequen industry and make paintings about the agave plants that produce the fiber used to make sisal rope.
Agave fields and sisal rope for sale at Sotuta de Peon a hacienda south of Merida
The residency is located in the Itzimna neighborhood of Merida just north of the city center. It is at the end of the Paseo de Montejo where the vestiges of the wealth that sisal brought to the area are visible. The wide boulevard is lined with impressive private homes, many of which are currently abandoned.
For two weeks, I experienced the daily rhythms of the neighborhood and spent productive days in the studio. With the support of Alejandra Villanueva at Lux Perpetua, I engaged in research throughout the city visiting the Roger Orellana Botanical Gardens, Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, Uxmal, and the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya. I learned about the local flora; the process of manufacturing sisal rope; saw artifacts from the haciendas up close; and then had the opportunity to bring those ideas immediately into the studio.
Oro Verde, gouache on paper, 30 x 22.5”, made in residence
Dios por Todo, gouache on paper, 24 x 18”, made in residence
The sisal fiber must be combed before it is spun into rope. Before mechanization, this process was done by hand by pulling the fibers through a comb (pictured above). Sotuta de Peon, Yucatan, Mexico
I also had the delight of seeing my first Mayan codex; trying my first (and second, and third) tepache; and wiling away afternoons with the residency cat, Maricarmen.
The resident cat, Maricarmen, was a dear and constant companion
Gracias por todo! I am truly grateful for the incredible support I received with this project.
Residency director, Alejandra Villanueva, provided extensive support during my stay