Live Weaving Demo with Avelina Martínez García

In celebration of the launch of the Reading Roots Market, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts will welcome visiting textile artist Avelina Martínez García for a special one-day exhibition and live weaving demonstration from 1:30–3:00 p.m. on the Thorn Alley Stage. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 1:25 p.m. for seating.

Presented in partnership with the Consulate of Mexico, Weaving Roots is an interactive bilingual demonstration focused on the transmission and preservation of traditional textile knowledge through practice. Led by Martínez García, the program introduces audiences to ancestral techniques including natural dyeing, spinning, and backstrap loom weaving, while exploring their cultural, historical, and material significance within Indigenous communities of Mexico.

During the demonstration, Martínez García will showcase the creation of the quexquémetl, a traditional Indigenous garment rooted in Mexican textile heritage. Her work plays an important role in preserving and passing down Indigenous weaving traditions, carrying forward the cultural memory woven into patterns, materials, and color. The afternoon will conclude with a live audience Q&A with the artist.

Following the demonstration, guests are invited to continue the celebration with the kickoff of GoggleWorks’ FIFA World Cup viewing series, featuring a live screening of the Mexico vs. South Africa match at 3:00 p.m. at Thorn Alley Kitchen. The watch-party-style gathering will include themed food and drink specials available for purchase throughout the game. No tickets are required for the viewing event.

Join us as we celebrate the launch of the Reading Roots Market through art, culture, food, soccer, and community connection.