Rebozos, the colorful, woven scarves that date back to the 1500s and have been featured in songs and poetry, are a symbol of Mexican culture.
Among the most famous aficionados of rebozos was Mexican painter Frida Kahlo.
The Tucson Museum of Art will celebrate the history of these eye-catching accessories at the “Festival de Rebozos, The Beautiful Shawls of Mexico,” from May 5-10.
The Latin American Art Patrons who support the museum will present the festival. Included is an educational program for schools, with presentations by Armandina Cruz, director of the Casa del Rebozo of Guadalajara, Mexico.
The week will culminate with two public events:
• A Gala Celebration of Music and Dance, 6 p.m. May 9, featuring Mexican appetizers and a program on the history of rebozos in music, poetry and dance. Mariachi Luz de Luna and Folklorico San Juan will perform. A fashion show demonstrating the ways to wear rebozos will be included. Tickets are $30 per person.
• Mother’s Day/Dia de las Madres family celebration, noon to 4 p.m. p.m. May 10. Families can bring in rebozos for evaluation and watch a master weaver demonstrate her craft.
There will be booths selling aguas frescas, churros and paletas, and a photo booth for a family portraits. Admission is free.
Both events will be at the museum, 140 N. Main Ave.
Rebozos can be woven in cotton, silk, cotton and silk or artisela rayon. Their long, narrow rectangular ends are knotted and fringed. The scarve can be worn as an everyday wrap or as a fashion accessory for evening wear.
Handmade rebozos will be for sale, with proceeds to benefit Latin American Art programs, exhibits and acquisitions at the museum.
For more information, call 624-2333.