Since 2003, Carolyn Kallenborn has been working with indigenous artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. It has been a rich exchange of ideas and culture. The inspiration for her own artwork comes from her experiences in Mexico and learning with the artists and craftsmen there.
Through my time Oaxaca I have come to appreciate the ability of art to cross boundaries. I have watched as my English speaking students communicate with their Oaxacan teachers without a common verbal language. As artists, they understand each other through visual and physical expression that is a part of art making, even if they do not understand the words being used by the maker. Both the U.S. students and the Oaxacan teachers find commonalities and appreciation. They teach me that art crosses borders and can create understanding and healing. And to me, that’s the best that art can be.
Recent press
‘We’ve all lost somebody’: Community Altar Project invites Madisonians to celebrate their dead, Cap Times, October 31, 2020
School of Human Ecology celebrates Day of the Dead, Daily Cardinal, November 6, 2019
UW–Madison partners celebrate Day of the Dead, traditional altars, Channel 3000 News, November 1, 2019
Classes Taught
- Course number: DS 319: Course title: Cloth to Clothing
- Course number: DS 501: Course title: Global Artisans
- Course number: DS 501 : Course title: Collection Development
- Course number: DS 501 : Course title: Design and Fashion Event Practicum
