Quipus and Malaguas | Youth Engagement Program

In this workshop led by Niceli Portugal, participants will create two sculptures, Quipus and Malaguas, reusing materials from daily life. The goal of these workshops is to think about sustainability exploring notions of interdependence and interconnectivity. 

Quipus, an Incan record-keeping artifact, are made up of “strips” joined together with knots. With each knot, participants will capture memories by answering questions encapsulated in time.

In Peru, jellyfish are known as Malaguas (mala-agua) which means bad water. Plastic and textile pollution in oceans and seas has affected marine and freshwater ecosystems. 

Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on how climate change affects our relationship with water. This workshop will spark conversations about water pollution, corporality, and climate change; while making a sculpture made with remains from our daily life. Attendees are encouraged to bring a piece of clothing to be transformed into art.

This Youth Engagement Program workshop welcomes participants between the ages of 12-24. Pizza and light refreshments will be provided. 

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