One of Ursinus College’s main selling points is that it caters to individuals of all backgrounds. Unsurprisingly, the opportunity to explore Latin culture here is available and always fascinating.
The long-running Hora De Café series, run primarily by Dr. Xochitl Shuru, provides students with an opportunity to experience aspects of Latin culture every month with hands-on activities centered around a relevant topic or holiday.
The Hora De Café series, which translates literally to “coffee time,” began in September 2019. Dr. Xochitl Shuru, an associate professor of Modern Languages and an affiliated faculty member for the Institute for Inclusion and Equity, is responsible for the series. In her own words, Hora De Café “is meant to create a space where students can learn and make Latin American art in a relaxed atmosphere over coffee and donuts. Faculty and their families have also participated, which creates a truer sense of community.”
These meetings take place monthly, typically on the last Friday. Before the hands-on portion, Dr. Shuru explains the relevance and significance of the activities. “There is always an explanation of the origins of the craft before students create their own art pieces,” Dr. Shuru explains. “This cultural event is meant to promote Latin American Art, Culture, and History.”
Some activities for the event include making piñatas and masks, “Ojo de Dios,” which is translated to “God’s Eye” and involves weaving a yarn cross, and “Papel Picado,” or making perforated paper. However, one of Dr. Shuru’s favorite events ties ancient history with the present. “One of my favorite activities is the ‘Mayan Glyphs,’” Dr. Shuru said. “In this activity, Dr. Meghan Tierney, an Art History Professor, presents a brief history of the Mayans and their writing. Students then spell their names using the Mayan syllabary on canvas using acrylic paint.” The next ‘Mayan Glyphs’ program is scheduled for Friday, November 15th, at 6 pm.
Keep an eye out for emails regarding future installments of Hora De Café!