Xicanx Symposium

10–11am: Mi Barrio Print Workshop with Andrea Izaguirre
Education Space
Mi barrio (my neighborhood) print workshop is an explorative workshop that combines elements of collage with printmaking using various trinkets, fabrics, and objects commonly found at home to create an image of the neighborhood. This activity, lead by printmaker Andrea Izaguirre, explores the sense of identity through the familiarity of home related objects to create a unique print called a collagraph. Participants are encouraged to bring meaningful materials to print with.

11am–12pm: Xicanx Exhibition Tour
Main Gallery
Explore our current  Xicanx: Dreamers and Changemakers in a guided slow tour. This tour will cover exhibition themes and background information, and break down three works in the exhibition in a “slow look” session. A must see for all interested in learning about the work and Artists in the exhibition.

12–1pm: Masa Para La Mesa with Jon Hinojosa: Corn Tortillas
Education Space
More than a staple in the diet of many Americas, the tortilla is a symbol of heritage, resilience, and cultural identity. For Xicanx people, the tortilla is also a continuity of ancestry and a form of culinary expression deeply embedded in social and family life.

The origins and history of corn tortillas is rich and deeply rooted in the traditions of Mesoamerican cultures, particularly those of Mexico and Central America. We will discuss cultural, folklore, and ceremonial issues, and how colonization and the modern adaptations of corn have impacted this mother grain. Hands-on opportunity to make and enjoy corn tortilla tacos with various fillings.

1–2pm: Solve for X | Panel Discussion with Ellen Riojas Clark, Ph. D., Debora Kuetzpal Vasquez, Isabel Servantez, moderated by Norma Martinez
Main Gallery
Stemming as response to social and political injustices, the Chicano movement reclaimed the word “Chicano” formerly used as a derogatory slur towards Mexican Americans. The word “Chicano/a” provided a unique identity to descendants of Mexican people who were American by birth, but culturally different than their white counterparts. The word, like the movement, is contextualized by its origins in activism and social awareness.

Today, terms like Xicanx seek to expand the context of “Chicano/a” by prioritizing inclusivity of gender, queer identities, and ideas of decolonization. Critics of the word believe that its use is reductive and, in many ways, may fail to encompass its intended purpose of decolonization or inclusivity. “Xicanx” is a descriptor, but in many ways, it is also a personal choice and statement.

Please join us in this panel discussion where Art professionals share their experience and own views of the inclusion of the letter “X”

10–11am: Zines as Political Tools Workshop with Suzy González
Education Space
Zines, self-published booklets with a range of writing and artwork, have long been accessible tools for social justice. Join artist, educator, zinester, and co-organizer of the San Anto Zine Fest, Suzy González, for a look into radical zine history and contemporary zines by BIPOC and Xicanx artists and activists. Gather in creative community to make your own zine based on an issue you feel passionate about!

11am–12pm: Harmony in Art: Guided Meditation with Ceiba ili
Main Gallery
Traditional instruments and rich cultural heritage come together in this guided meditation, led by renowned Honduran artist and musician Ceiba ili. This session complements Xicanx: Dreamers + Changemakers Soñadores + creadores del cambio
exhibition, immersing participants in themes of transformation, indigeneity and identity.

12–1pm: Masa Para La Mesa with Jon Hinojosa: Flour Tortillas
Education Space
More than a staple in the diet of many Americas, the tortilla is a symbol of heritage, resilience, and cultural identity. For Xicanx people, the tortilla is also a continuity of ancestry and a form of culinary expression deeply embedded in social and family life.

Flour tortillas have a distinct history that complements the rich tradition of corn tortillas, originating with the blending of Old and New World cuisines during the colonial period. We will discuss the origins, development, regional styles and why the flour tortilla took hold in northern Mexico and the southern United States. Hands-on opportunity to make and enjoy flour tortilla tacos with various fillings. 

1–2pm: Master Class with Al Rendón
Main Gallery
For over fifty years, Al Rendon has been documenting his hometown of San Antonio. Starting as a teenager taking photos of rock bands, he quickly transitioned to photos that represented San Antonio’s Mexican culture, photographing conjunto groups, Tejano musicians, street purveyors, charreada riders and ordinary people.