Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a wonderland of creativity in its own right, but the immersive attraction also regularly showcases a rotating lineup of exhibitions in its indoor galleries.
Sticking with that tradition, this Friday, July 31, Magic Gardens will open ‘Viviendo a Través de la Muerte (Living Through Death)’, a new exhibition by Mexican multidisciplinary artist Ivette Chaires. Featuring sculptures inspired by Día de los Muertos, the exhibition highlights Chaires’ use of cartonería, a traditional Mexican papier-mâché technique used to create expressive forms.
Curated by PMG Exhibition Manager Chelsey Luster, ‘Viviendo a Través de la Muerte’ will be on view through Nov. 8. Visitors will have several opportunities to engage directly with Chaires throughout its run as well, including the exhibition’s Opening Reception on July 31, when PMG will extend its hours until 9 p.m. and offer free admission. Guests can also attend a Talk & Tour with Chaires on Aug. 4 to learn more about Mexican folk art traditions and themes.
As a release notes, Chaires’ exhibition is part of PMG’s Julia Zagar Residency for Women Artists, an initiative created by Julia (wife of the late Magic Gardens founder Isaiah Zagar) to support contemporary artists working within the traditions of handcraft and folk art. The residency focuses on women artists from Mexico and South America, inviting recipients to spend time in Philadelphia, develop new work, connect with the community, and share their creations through exhibitions at Magic Gardens.
Alongside its gallery exhibitions, the space will also continue to offer immersive programs for Philadelphians and visitors. For one, Twilight in the Gardens, held on the fourth Friday of each month through October, invites visitors to experience the Magic Gardens Museum after hours with live music, art activities, and picnicking among Zagar’s vibrant mosaics. Throughout the year, visitors can also participate in guided tours, family-friendly programs (including PECO Family Jams on Aug. 9), staff-created scavenger hunts exploring hidden details within Zagar’s artwork, and monthly combination tours of the Magic Gardens Studio and the Dina Wind Art Foundation/John Wind Studio.
A full schedule of happenings can be found online.
For more information on Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (1020 South St.), visit phillymagicgardens.org
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