Dates: Fridays February: 17, 24, and March 3rd, 10, 2023
Time: 6-7:30 pm ET
Admission $120 Patreon members / $130 general admission

PLEASE NOTE: All classes will also be recorded and archived for students who cannot make that time.

In this 4 week online class led by Mexico City based artist and educator Teté Montero, take a deep dive into the history of traditional amulets and charms, and make one of your own!

Traditionally regarded as protective items to repel evil spirits and bring out luck, handsewn amulets are a type of charm usually carried around on the person. These wonderful and intricate pieces are usually rooted into religious or spiritual practice; they offer refuge and hope to their wearers in difficult moments, and can be seen as a link to our belief system, as well as an expression of our cultural identity.

Talismans, amulets and charms have been present since archaic humans (Neanderthals) existed, and appear as a constant in many cultures throughout the ages; they might have different sizes and styles, but they always possess deep spiritual significance. Some even hide something secret on the inside that allows us to retain contact the divine, safeguarding mindfully within their tiny physicality.

Made for loved ones or oneself, the amulet was made to ward the wearer from harm, sickness, to give protection in daily life, or bring good fortune. They usually carry a deep personal meaning, and are objects imbued with the maker's essence and intentions; a small reminder of the beauty and magic that the human connection to the beyond can be.

In this 4 week online class, we will review, via illustrated lectures, a graphic history of some fabric historic handmade traditional amulets and charms, their impact on the cultures that developed them, how are they are regarded, and have prevailed and evolved until the present times. In classroom discussions, we’ll explore the impact of these pieces in our lives, art, culture and fashion, and work to design and craft our own personal amulet inspired by what we have learned.

While the class will be focus on hand sewn pieces, if textiles is not your art medium, you are welcome to join and create an amulet in an alternative handmade style and create a piece that holds unique significance for you. Therefore sewing experience is not required.

Teté Montero is a Mexican end-of-life educator, death doula, unicorn enchantress, story teller and weaver, by choice. She is neurodivergent by neurology, a self appointed renaissance woman, a textile artist and teacher. She apprenticed under the care of master weaver Kenzo Jo in textile Saori art while in Japan. In addition, she has studied at University of Cambridge, Harvard University, The Hospice Association, Upaya Zen Center, and the Authentic Presence Organization. Her focus has been in medical studies, contemplative end of life care, medieval studies, socially engaged Buddhism and art. She currently runs a textile art studio in Mexico City with her rambunctious dog Kayi. She is Buddhist too!