"Weaving the Story: Maya Women in Chiapas"
Student Exhibition on View in UNCA's Blowers Gallery

"Weaving the Story: Maya Women in Chiapas," a mixed media installation by senior Andrea Quillian, will be on view through November 26 at UNC Asheville's Blowers Gallery. The exhibition includes 33 color photographs, a documentary film short and handwoven garments. An opening reception will be held from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, in the gallery. The reception will include refreshments by Cancun Mexican Restaurant and music by Tito. The show is the culmination of Quillian's work toward a bachelor of arts degree at UNCA. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Last year, Quillian spent six weeks in the Highlands of Chiapas working with the leader of the independent weaving cooperative, Maya Ik. She documented the work of women in nine different Maya communities. Quillian's exhibit is a small representation of daily life in communities surrounding Asheville's sister city, San Cristólbal de Las Casas in Chiapas, Mexico. The documentary project, which includes video and still images, demonstrates aspects of the lives of Maya women struggling to gain economic independence while preserving the ancient art of backstrap loom weaving.

Blowers Gallery, located on the main floor of UNCA's Ramsey Library, is open during regular library hours. For hours of operation, call UNCA's Ramsey Library at 828/251-6546.

Media Contacts:

• Nancy Hayes, UNCA Blowers Gallery Coordinator, 828/251-6436
• Jill Yarnall, UNCA Public Information Assistant Director, 828/251-6526