KING CITY — To commemorate the 15th anniversary of Sol Treasures in King City, several free cultural activities for the community are scheduled to begin this weekend.
Guests are invited to celebrate the history and tradition of the ancient Maya writing system with an exhibition from May 5 to June 26 at the art gallery, which will be showcasing “The 13 Bak’tun Codex” by Ignacio Fernandez and Carmen Gomez Vega, alongside the storytelling talents of renowned Oaxacan storyteller Gabriel Martinez.
An opening reception is set for Friday, May 5, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., during which attendees “can view the captivating blend of traditional and contemporary artistic expressions that explore the rich cultural heritage of the Americas and pre-Columbian times,” according to Maria Turner, operations manager for Sol Treasures.
There will be an artist talk with Fernandez and storytelling by Martinez from 6 to 7 p.m. to learn more about the history and tradition of the Maya people. Specifically, Martinez will share experiences of a pilgrimage of initiation from a Zapotec province of Oaxaca.
“The pilgrimage teaches respect and the importance of coexisting with Mother Earth,” said Martinez, a Mexican writer from the state of Oaxaca.
In addition, the reception will include Aztec dancers from 7 to 8 p.m.
Then, on Saturday, May 6, the gallery is hosting a Mayan writing workshop led by Fernandez. Participants of the free workshop will be able to learn and create their own miniature Mayan codex, making for a fun and interactive experience for all.
“We can’t wait to share this unique and enriching cultural experience with you,” Turner said.
Both events are sponsored by Aera Energy and Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop.
Docent tours of the Maya Codex Gallery Exhibit and Mini Codex Art Project are also being scheduled for South Monterey County teachers to bring their students to learn about this ancient writing system through this exhibition.
The exhibit features two contemporary codices inspired by the pre-Columbian folded books. “The 13 Bak’tun Codex” centerpiece is 13 watercolor panels assembled into the codex format, fashioned after the Maya rituals and lore. Students will see that 900 years ago, the Maya created something similar to what is now called a “graphic novel.”
“The docent tour will allow the students to engage with the gallery exhibit, be introduced to this ancient writing system, and then create a mini codex using modern-day stamps and watercolors to create their mini codex,” Turner explained.
Tours are available from May 8 to 27. To arrange a docent tour, contact Anita McKean at 831-809-1637 or [email protected].
The Mayan exhibition will be available to view until June 26 at Sol Treasures, 519 Broadway St., in King City.
