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Mexico City-based artist duo Celeste (María Fernanda Camarena and Gabriel Rosas Alemán) led a special two-day workshop at the Art School at Laguna Gloria in May, during which participants made their own hand-dyed and painted picnic blankets. Celeste’s artwork has been on view at the Jones Center in the exhibition HOST: Celeste throughout Spring and Summer 2023.

Participants made blanket with materials specially selected by Celeste, using the techniques of dyeing and painting as a starting point. Students worked directly with the artists, experimenting with material, form, and color to explore a range of topics such as collaborative practice, symbols, and storytelling. This two-day weekend workshop was designed to inspire an environment of exchange and inquiry, and is organized in conjunction with Celeste’s temporary installation at Laguna Gloria, Manta de Cielo.

Workshop artists were invited back to Laguna Gloria the evening of Thursday, May 18 to put your blanket to good use during the sister event, Manta de Cielo: A Community Picnic & Conversation with Celeste, hosted by curator Robin K. Williams. During this festive picnic they enjoyed artist talks, special musical performances, and complimentary drinks–all while sitting on thier very own creations!

Joining Celeste was Macarena Hernandez, an editor, curator, and cultural manager who provided additional context and insight into the dynamics of collaborative practice.