The here and now... and what and why

Complacency is a trap. At least that’s what I was thinking when I up and left the comfort of a Yankee prep school gig, where I taught music, amongst other things, for 28 years. There was also that life long career as a composer, musician and artist.

First, it was a year in St. Thomas, USVI, working as a reporter and shooting photography and then, a year in San Agustin Etla, Oaxaca, Mexico.
Time passed.
More time passed and a year back in the Athens of America followed by a hasty return to Oaxaca where it is all happening.
A couple of years in San Sebastian Etla and now, just down the road in San Pablo Etla. Life is good.

Click on an image to see it larger.
For additional photography please visit my flickr page.
You can find my music on Jango (World & latin - Worldbeat) and at iTunes and most online stores.
¡Soy consciente de todas las tradiciones del Internet!
If you are coming to Oaxaca, please contact me for tours or advice.

Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo
The view from Corazon del Pueblo

The hereafter re me

My photo
Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
Musician, photographer, videographer, reporter, ex-officio teacher, now attempting to be a world traveler

Sunday, July 15, 2018

Feria de Barro Rojo - San Marcos Tlapazola

July is jammed packed with great things to do and yesterday, it was off to the opening day of the San Marcos Tlapazola Barro Rojo Fair. 
The village is famous not only for its pottery, but also for the strength and the organizational and business skills of the women.
The event was quite crowded, filled with people, music, food and so many wonderful sights. 
This little guy was enjoying the people watching just as I was.
San Marcos is a few kms. beyond Tlacolula, across a broad flat valley and nestled against the foothills.  There is only one road that goes there, just look for the sign which is completely covered by a tree.
And not only ceramics, but incredible traditional outfits.  This woman's traje is very typical, but very fancy.
I had to ask for permission to take a photo, to which she readily agreed.
One can see and feel the strength and vibrancy of the women of the village.
It's written on the walls.
"Red is the spirit of fire, as the flames embrace the clay to give strength to each piece. Women also have the right to the land."
And wonderful to see so many young women ready to carry on the traditions.  The feria is a three day affair.  Be There or Be Square.

1 comment:

Cristina Potters said...

Christopher Stowens, your post about this Feria is just wonderful, beautifully photographed and written. Thank you!