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10 Recipes for a Magical Christmas Brunch

By
Kylie Thomas
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An easy breakfast bake made with eggs, presented in a pie dish in the upper left corner, with a piece on a plate, and forks to the right of the pie dish.

Brunch is arguably the best meal of the day, and a Christmas brunch should impress just as much as the dinner. Brunch’s combination of savory and sweet, breakfast and lunch, inspires dishes that’ll start your day off in an extraordinary way. We’ve put together a menu of recipes that’ll bedeck your table with a crowd-pleasing bit of everything wonderful.

10 Recipes for a Magical Christmas Brunch

Maple Chai Cinnamon Rolls

Five cinnamon rolls on five different small plates, drizzled with icing and garnished with broken cinnamon sticks on a green surface.

Imagine warm, aromatic Maple Chai Cinnamon Rolls presented to your family on Christmas Day. What could be more magical? The combination of warm baking spices and sweet maple syrup is perfect for those whose nostalgia recalls mornings in great-grandmother’s kitchen, perfumed with cinnamon…and love.

Easy Breakfast Bake

An easy breakfast bake made with eggs, presented in a pie dish in the upper left corner, with a piece on a plate, and forks to the right of the pie dish.

The ease of preparation makes this recipe a good choice for last minute brunchmeisters.  It is, however, versatile enough to be prepared ahead of time. This Easy Breakfast Bake contains everyone’s brunch favorites: eggs, prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, and plenty of cheese.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Cheese Bread

Roasted Cherry Tomato Cheese Bread placed on a brownish cake board being cut with a knife

Embrace the flavors of fresh vegetables and handmade cheese with our Roasted Cherry Tomato Cheese Bread. If you’re looking for a light brunch to leave room for the Christmas feast, have a slice of goodness that’ll keep you satisfied till later.

Creamed Spinach with Dippy Eggs

An aerial view of a dippy egg sitting on top of creamed spinach. a few pieces of sliced french bread sits off to the left of the plate.

Dippy eggs with their warm runny yolk, combined with rich spinach, make for a delightful and nutritious bite. This addition to your brunch menu is simple and quick, but elegant in its flavor and presentation.

Carrot and Beet Latkes

An aerial view of a wooden cutting board filled with various veggies like carrots and beets. Carrot and Beet Latkes recipe

Looking for a healthy side to your brunch? The earthy sweetness of Carrot and Beet Latkes beautifully complements the salty goodness of smoked salmon. This recipe makes for a fun meal, where everyone is free to try the garnish combination of their choice.

Bacon, Blue Cheese, and Date Biscuit

An aerial shot of Bacon, Blue Cheese & Date Biscuits, one sits on a plate while three others sit on a cooling rack. biscuits recipe

Savory, sweet, and creamy: nothing expresses comfort like this homemade biscuit recipe. It will be the star of your Christmas brunch. The biscuits can be served as part of a cornucopia of pastries and breads, or it can be the foundation of a main dish when topped with a poached egg and drizzled with a bit of hollandaise.

Chorizo Scotch Eggs with Chimichurri

Chorizo Scotch Eggs with Chimichurri sits on a white plate surrounded by greenery.

Kick this classic British appetizer up a notch with some spice. In this version, Mexican chorizo is used to swaddle the eggs for phenomenal results. Impress yourself and your friends with this unique Chorizo Scotch Eggs with Chimichurri recipe. (Don’t tell anyone, but this is a TABLE staff “breakfast for dinner” favorite.)

Egg Masala Puffs

An aerial view of four Egg Masala Puffs on a grey plate with micro greens underneath.

The flaky, buttery puff pastry sprinkled with spices and topped with a soft-cooked egg is a recipe you’ll want to make for Christmas and every day after. It’s bright, earthy, and somehow turns an already lovely day into something even better.  

Breakfast Strata

Off to the right side of the frame sits breakfast strata, green, brown, and red in color, in a white casserole dish. three gold forks sits to the left.

Those who prefer a savory brunch over a sweet one need look no further than this light and fluffy egg casserole. Made with roasted grape tomatoes, our luxurious Breakfast Strata recipe will be a family request for many Christmases yet to come.

Huevos Rancheros with Corn Tortilla Arrows

Small portions of Huevos Rancheros, A classic Mexican dish reimagined into a lighter, more delicate version of itself.

Chef John Sedlar conceived this preparation as a lighter version of the traditional hearty Southwestern dish. Add it to your selection of meats and cheeses for a special touch. Serving the huevos mixture in the egg shells takes a bit of fiddling, but is so worth it for the presentation’s wow factor.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Last Minute Tickets in Pittsburgh: December 11-17

By
Kylie Thomas
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A boy dressed as Ralphie stands in a pink bunny suit in between his mom and dad on stage in Pittsburgh.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Public Theater

The adrenaline rush of doing something spontaneous is unbeatable. Maybe you decide to go see a movie by yourself on a weekday afternoon. Or you decide to take you and your significant other to dinner dressed in your fanciest outfits…followed by the ballet afterwards. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust hosts plenty of events and with so much happening, you could spend any moment you wish at the theater, enjoying a great show. Do something spontaneous with your day and purchase a last-minute ticket to any performance in Pittsburgh. You might just find your new favorite production. 

Fallen Leaves

Harris Theater, December 11-17

Finnish filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki presents his latest dark-comic romance to the city of Pittsburgh. Grocery clerk Ansa (Alma Pöysti) and construction laborer Holappa (Jussi Vatanen) take on the journey of their lives while running into each other along the way. They search for stability and happiness in a world that seems to be falling apart. 

A Very Yinzer Christmas

Benedum Center, December 11

Join 3WS Radio for a night of musical performances to ring in the holiday season by 25 local music icons. The event coincides with the release of the Christmas album A Very Yinzer Christmas Volume 1 which features many of the performers. Proceeds from the concert benefit Band Together Pittsburgh, a local organization that creates music programs for people on the autism spectrum.

Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley

City Theatre Mainstage, December 12-17

This one’s for all the book lovers out there. Dive into the world of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice in this play by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon, directed by Kyle Haden. Follow the Bennets, Darcys, and Bingleys, for a Christmas at Pemberly when an unexpected guest makes an appearance.

A Christmas Story: The Play

O’Reilly Theater, December 12-17

Back by popular demand, this holiday hit may just become your newest yuletide tradition as Ralphie Parker and company (leg lamp and all) make their triumphant return to the O’Reilly Theater stage. If you loved the movie, you’ll love the play just as much in this family-friendly comedy adventure. 

Straight No Chaser – Sleighin’ It Tour

Benedum Center, December 12 

Live out your Pitch Perfect dreams with this suave male acapella group. The nine men bring their magnificent voices together to create every bit of music with only their mouths. This isn’t your college acapella group, instead, it’s a symphony from some of the top vocalists in the world. 

Lynn Speakman Quintet

Greer Cabaret Theater, December 12

Local saxophonist and flautist Lynn Speakman brings her band together for a night of music and fun, all for free. Musicians James Moore, Joe Sheehan, Paul Thompson, and Tom Wendt join her on stage to present a chorus of jazz music. 

A Musical Christmas Carol

Byham Theater, December 15-17

This holiday tradition for the whole family takes high spirits and combines them with your favorite yuletide songs. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim for a true Christmas journey filled with special effects and plenty of charm.

Who’s Holiday!

Greer Cabaret Theater, December 13-17

This comedy holiday show inspired by The Grinch is for adults only so leave the kiddos at home and grab a group of friends. Cindy Lou is grown up now and is experiencing all the fun parts of adulthood, especially the drinking. You’re sure to leave with a belly full of laughter.

The Nutcracker

Benedum Center, December 15-17

We’re seeing visions of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Marie, and her Nutcracker Prince, dance in our heads. Don’t miss this holiday tradition for the city of Pittsburgh by the awe-inspiring dancers of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.

Highmark Holiday Pops

Heinz Hall, December 15-17

You can’t spell the most wonderful time of the year without Highmark Holiday Pops. Well, maybe you can. But it’s more fun to experience this musical Pittsburgh holiday tradition featuring all your favorite holiday songs.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Pittsburgh Happenings: 12-18

By
Kylie Thomas
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A group of people take part in a yoga class, stretching and sitting on colored yoga mats on the floor.
Photo courtesy of Anupam Mahapatra

Not every event of December has to revolve around the holidays. We have a mix of events around the city, and a smidgen of holiday cheer. Want to make your own Taylor Swift cardigan? How about immersing yourself in the flavors of Pinot Noir from across the world? No matter your preferences, Pittsburgh has you covered.

A bottle of wine pouring into a wine glass at the eatery at Pittsburgh's The PA Market.
Photo courtesy of The PA Market

Pinot Noirs From Around The World

The Pennsylvania Market, December 13

Try some of the finest selections of Pinot Noir from countries all over. Be ready to wine and dine as you try four different varieties of wine accompanied by a charcuterie snack board. You won’t want to miss this chance to add a very special wine to your holiday table. 

A woman helps a girl sitting at a wooden table working on a craft.
Photo courtesy of Contemporary Craft

Swift and Stitch: Cardigan Makeover

Contemporary Craft, December 13

Celebrate your favorite pop star Taylor Swift’s birthday by customizing your own cardigan to live out your Folklore dreams. Sewing machines, patchwork, embellishment materials, and a walk-through by ​​instructor Mandy Wilson will be provided alongside all of Taylor Swift’s jams.

A woman assists two children in an activity at a gallery in Pittsburgh.
Photo courtesy of the Hill Community Development Corporation

Pre-Kwanzaa Event

Nafasi on Centre, December 16

Prepare to celebrate Kwanzaa by learning about the history of the holiday and its traditions. This family-fun event includes lots of food and activities to keep the kids busy while learning along the way. There will also be vendors available for any of your holiday supplies needs.

A group of people take part in a yoga class, stretching and sitting on colored yoga mats on the floor in Pittsburgh.
Photo courtesy of Anupam Mahapatra

Winter Solstice Yoga

Joy In Movement, December 17

Immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of the winter solstice. Enjoy a gently heated room, cozy blankets and bolster, along with slow movement and guided meditation. Refreshments will be provided and cats from Conquer the Colony rescue will be available as little yoga companions. 

a group of stage actors play the villagers of A Christmas Carol onstage with instruments in the background.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh CLO

A Musical Christmas Carol

Byham Theater, December 15-23

This holiday tradition for the whole family takes high spirits and combines them with your favorite yuletide songs. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim for a true Christmas journey filled with special effects and plenty of charm.

View other events we’re excited about this month!

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Box Road Brings Unique Antiques to Albuquerque

By
Kylie Thomas
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A captivating blend of antique, vintage, and modern furnishings and accessories from Box Road, housed in the beautifully remodeled 1928-era Art Deco-style Arrow Grocery in Albuquerque's historic Barelas district.

What happens when two friends and business partners with a passion for antiques come across a derelict 1928-era, Art Deco-style grocery store? Alex Hanna headed to Albuquerque to find out more about Box Road.

Unique Antiques to Albuquerque

A Chance Meeting

When my husband and I moved into a new house years ago, we were faced with a very large cold floor, thanks to the previous owner’s DIY addition. Our feet were freezing, but, like a lot of new homeowners, our budget for remodeling was long gone. Luckily, we met Michael Ouellette who was working primarily in the rug business and was kind enough to loan us a luxurious, African-inspired, indigo carpet. That piece was worth far more than we could spend at the time, but it kept us cozy for months until we found something in our price range. That was years ago, but I still dream about that rug.

Popular antiques

Michael still deals in rugs but now so much more. He and his business partner Donnie Volkart have been fixtures in Round Top, Texas–home of one of the country’s most popular antiques fairs–for years. Now they’re a lot closer to home, thanks to their new space near downtown Albuquerque. It’s a classic story of people with a passion for what they do who literally live and work out of the back of their trucks to find the best antiques and vintage and modern furnishings and accessories.

Antiques vintage and modern furnishings

Connecting New Mexico to the Hispanic World

Michael and Donnie do lots of buying in Mexico City and have always had a strong connection to the aesthetics of the Hispanic world. When they came across the abandoned Arrow Grocery from the late 1920s in the Barelas district of Albuquerque–the oldest “barrio” in the city, established in the 17th century–they saw an opportunity to connect even more closely with the culture. Indeed, one of the very first things I saw when I arrived were the charming and mysterious faces sculpted onto a series of Oaxacan vessels. While the whimsy that animates these vessels seems to be a guiding force for their collections, it belies the amount of work behind the scenes: the massive remodel of the space, the countless hours traveling around the country and the world, and the efforts to connect objects with just the right owners.

Anything From Anywhere

Part of what makes the store’s style and creativity work is that they don’t limit themselves to Latin American objects or even to just old objects. You can find modernist gems and Scandinavia design sitting side by side quite happily. Distressed painted dressers proudly show their age, topped by French confit jars with crackled glaze. Tucked into weathered cabinets you’ll find folk-art pieces that beg the question: what is this for exactly? And there are what I’d call old-school antiques like 1800s English tableware and chests that look like they made the trip across the Atlantic covered with contemporary artisanal dinnerware and utensils.

The sum here is movingly greater than the parts, and It is this energetic juxtaposition that excites the imagination and feeds the soul. Cultural inspirations from around the world are beautifully curated in this transformed old grocery space in one of the oldest settlements in New Mexico. Both the space and its contents, now enjoying a new lease on life.

Old-school antiques

While much of their business is to the trade, don’t hesitate to visit, whether to shop or simply to get inspiration for your own interior design projects from these two passionate pros.

Story by Alex Hanna / Photography by Tira Howard

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6 Wines for the Holiday Table

By
Kylie Thomas
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Four people toast at a Holiday setting with holiday wine glasses over a table full of food and candles.
Photo courtesy of Kraken Images

The time for feasting is here! While most of us will enjoy our family’s traditional foods, perhaps the big meal could use a boost with a new wine or two for the holiday table to sip and savor.

Our wine expert, Adam Knoerzer, suggest wines for you to pour at the holiday dinner table, whatever your main course might be. His list includes turkey, ham or roast beef entrees, all of them available at Fine Wines, Good Spirits.  

6 Wines for the Holiday Table

Turkey Main Course

Hamilton Russell Vineyards Chardonnay 2021 (Hemel-en-Aarde, South Africa), $45.99

You’d be forgiven for thinking this absolute gem was grown somewhere in Burgundy. But, South African soils have given us this stunner with elegant pear and lemon notes that are bundled by bright, driving acidity and an epic finish. 

Tania & Vincent Carême “Terre Brûlée” Chenin Blanc 2021 (Swartland, South Africa), $9.99

Big, beautiful wines don’t always require a big price tag, and this offering proves it. Lush, unctuous textures of melon, honey, and citrus harmoniously mingle with notes of orange blossom and nuts to provide an all-around winner without breaking the bank. 

Ham Main Course

Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé NV, $19.99

Fresh red berries burst from the glass with primarily raspberry and strawberry leading the charge, and a hint of peach and crème work their way into the palate adorned by soft, delicate bubbles. The wine finishes dry and begs for another sip. 

Teliani Valley Guardians Rkatsiteli (Kahketi, Georgia), $11.99

Hard to pronounce (urr-cats-uhh-TELL-ee), sure, but absolutely perfect to accompany your holiday ham. This grape is rich in white peach, jasmine, and apricots with a honeyed lemon and lime element on the finish. Plus, the ample acid keeps things light and versatile enough for the side dishes, too.

Roast Beef Main Course

Domaine des Tourelles Vieilles Vignes Carignan (Bekaa Valley, Lebanon), $26.99

High-elevation old vine Carignan is a treat, and this example is full of ripe, dark cherries framed by a meaty, earthy undertone that makes it perfect for your roast. Notes of cranberry, licorice, and spices round things out on the finish, and you’ll be reaching back for more. 

Bodega Garzón Tannat Reserva 2020 (Uruguay), $12.99

This juicy red comes to us from Uruguay and offers a clean, modern example of Tannat that’s approachable and complex. Think dark plums, dark cherries, warm baking spices from oak, and a kiss of caramel and vanilla on the finish.

Story by Adam Knoerzer

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Bacon Potato Roses

By
Star Laliberte
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A round crackled looking plate with 6 bacon potato roses garnished with fresh rosemary, a glass or red wine and a stack of little plates and forks.

There are over 150 species of roses, but none more suitable or more appreciated at the holiday table than Bacon Potato Roses. Limited cultivation and rapid maturation, otherwise known as few ingredients and a short time in the oven, yield a “floral” centerpiece with an alluring aroma. Your guests will oooh and aaah. You will feel like a chef. Pair them with a crisp traditional French Chablis…and everyone around the table will be happy.

Bacon Potato Roses Recipe

INGREDIENTS

6 yellow potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder
6 bacon slices

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Peel potatoes and slice very thin on a mandolin or with a knife. 
  2. Add potato slices to a bowl, along with the olive oil, and seasonings, mixing well. 
  3. Take one piece of bacon and lay it on your cutting board. Shingle the potatoes together and roll up the bacon and potatoes so that it looks like a rose. 
  4. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Recipe by Chef Jackie Page / Styling by Anna Franklin / Photography by Dave Bryce

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The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

By
Star Laliberte
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A round blue platter with 5 potato latkes , two small bowls with sour cream and applesauce, 3 gold forks, and a smaller lighter blue plate with 3 smaller latkes, and a blue linen.

A little extra attention makes this recipe for The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes very special.

Traditionally consisting of foods fried in oil, perhaps the most iconic item on Hanukkah menus around the world are potato latkes. They, like the other Hanukkah foods that you fry in oil, are a symbol of a miracle. The Jewish people had reclaimed the Temple, and their freedom, from the ruler of Syria who had forbade their religious practices. After the rebuilding and rededication of the temple, there was only enough oil to light the candles of the menorah for one day, but the flame burned for 8 days.

About These Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

TABLE friend, Judah Cowen of Elegant Edge Catering, is sharing his recipe for this quintessential Hanukkah food with our readers. Judah’s told us, “We do not use a binder, and we keep them gluten-free. It’s a bit harder to fry, but it’s worth it, in my opinion.  The idea is to have them crispy and to be able to see, feel, as well as taste the shreds — not to be made into pancakes.”

We can certainly attest to the outcome being worth the extra attention, in what we are calling The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes recipe. It’s absolutely irresistible when served hot with sour cream and apple sauce.

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A round blue platter with 5 potato latkes , two small bowls with sour cream and applesauce, 3 gold forks, and a smaller lighter blue plate with 3 smaller latkes, and a blue linen.

The Best Gluten-Free Potato Latkes

  • Author: Judah Cowen
Print Recipe

Description

Gluten-free so all can enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lb (3-4) potatoes
  • 1 small shallot
  • 1 medium Spanish onion
  • 1 clove fresh garlic or 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup schmaltz or oil (or a combination of both) for frying

Instructions

  1. Peel the potatoes and place them in water until ready to grate.
  2. Peel and then shred shallots, onions, and garlic.
  3. Shred the potatoes.
  4. Mix all ingredients, excluding the oil.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet.
  6. Add about 3-5 ounces of the mixture into the pan, depending on the desired size. Squeeze some of the liquid out for a crispier latke. Fry on medium heat for around 4-5 minutes on both sides until crispy and golden brown.
  7. Place the latkes on a wire cooling rack or paper towel and serve hot with applesauce and sour cream.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Recipe by Judah Cowan of Elegant Edge Catering Company 
Styling by Anna Franklin
Story and Photography by Star Laliberte

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Gin Fizz with Rizz

By
Star Laliberte
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0
The Gin Fizz with Rizz: A tall, thin highball glass with a cocktail topped with champagne on a black background with a gold cocktail shaker, lemon, and the bottle cork as styling elements.

Oxford University Press, publisher of the Oxford English Dictionary, said that the 2023 word of the year is “rizz.” Do you have it? It is Charm, style, attractiveness…resulting in the ability to attract a romantic or sexual partner. So of course you have it!

What is Rizz?

Thank you, Gen Z, for popularizing the use of this slang term, said to be short for charisma. We credit you with the inspiration for a cocktail with more “rizz” than the basic Gin Fizz. Our Gin Fizz with Rizz embodies the trendy, suave, and seductive word. The charm of a feel-good cocktail, the style of a classic, and all the appeal of a fine Champagne.

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The Gin Fizz with Rizz: A tall, thin highball glass with a cocktail topped with champagne on a black background with a gold cocktail shaker, lemon, and the bottle cork as styling elements.

Gin Fizz with Rizz

  • Author: Zack Durkin
Print Recipe

Description

A gin fizz that will give you an extra bit of rizz.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz Gin
  • .5 oz lemon juce
  • .5 oz simple syrup
  • 1 egg white
  • Champagne or sparkling white wine to top

Instructions

  1. Combine gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white and ice into a cocktail shaker.
  2. Shake vigorously until the shaker is cold to the touch and the cocktail is frothy.
  3. Strain into your favorite glass.
  4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
  5. Enjoy!

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Here are 6 Classic Cocktails that also have rizz.

Recipe by Zack Durkin
Styling by Anna Franklin
Story and Photography by Star Laliberte

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On View at New Mexico Museum of Art

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ZAIN
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A painting titled El Santo in a blocky style by Marsden Harley on view at New Mexico Museum of Art
Marsden Hartley, El Santo, 1919

Marsden Hartley was part of the second generation of artists to come to Taos. This group, including Andrew Dasburg, John Marin, and Georgia O’Keeffe, introduced Modernism into the Southwest.  

Hartley often came into conflict with many of the academic painters who made up the Taos Society of Artists.  In 1918 Hartley wrote an essay in El Palacio Magazine critiquing the application of European academic techniques to what he saw as the uniquely American subject matter of the Southwest. Criticizing the Taos Society Artist, he wrote, “they tell themselves that the great art of America is to come from Taos. Well, there will have to be godlike changes for the better in this case.”

Hartley eventually moved to Santa Fe to distance himself from Taos’s artistically conservative climate. Like many American Modernist painters of the 20th Century, Marsden Hartley was looking for a distinctly American subject for his artwork, and a certain “aesthetic sincerity.” 

Hartley first visited New Mexico in 1918, the year after the New Mexico Museum of Art opened, and wrote of the experience, “I am an American discovering America.” During his early visits to New Mexico his style shifted from abstract to more realistic subject matter, and he found what he believed to be definitively American subject matter in the blending of Native, Hispanic, and Euro-American cultures. He produced a number of still lifes here, such as the Hispanic Catholic retablo in this painting, depicted along with Native pottery and textiles. 

Story by Christian Waguespack, Head of Curatorial Affairs, New Mexico Museum of Art

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Mexican Masks

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ZAIN
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Helmet Mask Used in the Jaguar (Tecuanes) Dance of Zitlala, Guerrero, Mexico. From the collection of Rob Gaston. 
Helmet Mask Used in the Jaguar (Tecuanes) Dance of Zitlala, Guerrero, Mexico. From the collection of Rob Gaston. 

An exhibit at Oakland-based Latin American Cultural Center (LACC) explores ancient traditions and modern-day iterations of the mask. 

Sandra Budd, assistant director and curator, says the exhibit MEXICAN MASKS: Symbols, Celebrations, Satire, and Safety, represents incredible diversity and creativity, displaying 88 traditional and contemporary masks from 19 Mexican states. Visitors can find a video presentation highlighting five dance mask festivals, several contemporary photos, and miniature mask festival figurines, too. “Three sections showcase some of the best mask-making artists in Mexico,” she said. “Each is unique and beautifully sculpted in wood or leather by the artists.”

Sixty of the masks come from a collector friend of Budd’s—Rob Gaston of Gaston Design in Fruita, CO. Together they coordinated the mask transfer to Pittsburgh via rental van, and Budd also hand-carried masks on loan from local collections. “The coordination is a longer process than actually transporting the objects,” she explained, “There is packing, crating, shipping, loan agreements, condition reports, insurance coverage.” 

Billie (Bill) R. DeWalt, PhD, senior advisor at the Latin American Studies Association, said, “[Gaston] has assembled a spectacular collection of both older and more recent masks that will delight visitors.” DeWalt, who lived in a small central Mexico village while completing his PhD in cultural anthropology, contributes a few masks, too. He recalled, “On any day in some part of Mexico there is likely to be a fiesta happening; people in masks are a part of many of those celebrations.”

Traditions intersected with the COVID-19 pandemic

During the pandemic, DeWalt began reading about Mexican masks and COVID intersecting in interesting ways. “One connection was that freestyle wrestlers in Mexico who had been using masks as part of their personas in the ring were going out in public to encourage people to wear masks,” he said. “Some, who had made versions of their masks to sell to fans, began making COVID masks as a means of replacing lost income.” Two Mexican anthropologists, Carlos Davila and Blanca Cardenas, began encouraging traditional mask makers to portray how they thought about COVID in masks; this exhibit showcases several of those creations. 

The mask Budd most looks forward to viewing? A full-size jaguar body mask, carved in wood.

Through April 20, 2024: Oakland’s Latin American Cultural Center (LACC) welcomes MEXICAN MASKS: Symbols, Celebrations, Satire, and Safety.

Story by Corinne Whiting

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