Marta Villasenor
 Martha Villaseñor grew up immersed in the folk traditions of Urapan, Michoacan in Mexico and learned to make colorful piñatas and flores de papel (paper flowers) for the many festivals celebrated there. As she recalls, “Making piñatas was like learning to tie your shoes”. Star-shaped piñatas were the most popular in her area. Martha remembers gathering in the street with friends and neighbors to make them for Las Posadas celebration from December 16-24.
Area: Medford area Piñatas and Flores de papel Students to make one large piñata (in groups) or individual piñatas and learn a traditional piñata song in Spanish. Martha will share the symbolism behind the different shapes of piñatas, the use of special colors and information about the fiestas and Mexican holidays where piñatas are an important part of the celebration. She also teaches them to make large, colorful flores de papel (paper flowers) which are often used as decorations during these celebrations. CONTENT STANDARD CONNECTIONS: The Arts: Aesthetics & Art Criticism; Historical & Cultural Connections; Creating Social Sciences: World History; Geography |