February 25 – May 27, 2012

The rich textile tradition of Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec community in Oaxaca, Mexico, is on exhibition February 25 through May 27, when the Museum of Ventura County presents Hilos de la Vida / Threads of Life, featuring woven pieces from the Bii Daüü Zapotec Arts Center. Work by local Zapotec weaver and artist Porfirio Gutierrez of Ventura is also featured. Gutierrez uses traditional methods but applies a more modern interpretation to Zapotec-inspired designs. Included with the exhibit is a demonstration of the techniques of the foot loom and a look at how textiles are used in everyday life.

The opening reception is Friday, February 24th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Admission to the event is $5 for the general public, free for museum members, and includes admission to all galleries. For reservations, call (805) 653-0323 x 7.

Established in 2004, the Bii Daüü Zapotec Arts Center is a cooperative dedicated to the production of textiles using only natural dyes and original designs. It makes a commitment to cultural sustainability by teaching young people in Teotitlán del Valle traditional methods, in order to preserve the ancient Zapotec techniques.

Other exhibits opening at the Museum during the same time period include Music before Columbus: the Collection of Luis Perez, featuring Pre-Columbian musical instruments from Mesoamerica, and The White Instruments: Recent Creations by Luis Perez.

The Museum of Ventura County is located at 100 East Main Street in downtown Ventura. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the exhibitions is $4 adults, $3 seniors, $1 children 6-17, members and children under 6 are free. For more museum information go to www.venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.