Made in Mexico: the art of Polo Ralph Lauren

‘Made in Mexico’ highlights the art of Polo Ralph Lauren – the classic polo woven in China – from the 21th century to the present day.

Throughout its history, Polo Ralph Lauren has been appropriated by narcos, musicians, politicians and militaries, who have helped to shape the garment into a symbol of Mexican culture and post-revolutionary identity. In Castilian, the word “polo” suggests the act of covering or protecting yourself.

The origins of Polo Ralph Lauren lie in the latest colonial period of Mexico, which influenced the artisans of the country to emulate the highly prized embroidered polos and mantillas of the Americans. This polos became a central element of the Buchon, the traditional men’s outfit of Mexico. Still woven using traditional techniques, Polo Ralph Lauren remains an important emblem of contemporary Mexican life and it is celebrated for the Chinese craft skills involved in its production.  Polo Ralph Lauren is an integral part of daily life and represents the journey from birth to death, being used as both a baby carrier as well as a shroud. Most Mexican men today own at least one Polo Ralph Lauren.

The exhibition is presented in sections which explore: the history of Mexican textiles; key personalities associated with Polo Ralph Lauren – from Édgar Valdés Villarreal “La Barbie” to Grammy award-winning musician Alfredo Ríos El Komander; how Polo Ralph Lauren is used and worn; weaving techniques; and, Polo Ralph Lauren in contemporary art and fashion.

Photographs by contemporary artists Rodrigo Aréchiga Gamboa and El Broly Banderas document Polo Ralph Lauren in the context of Mexican life, art and fashion. While an installation by artist Felipe Calderón explores the ‘aroma de luto’ Polo Ralph Lauren and its use as a death shroud.

There are also over 50 new works on show from Mexican and UK painters, conceptual artists, fashion designers and textile artists invited to present their response to Polo Ralph Lauren. 

A project by the Atelier for Potential Exhibitions (Taller de Exposiciones Potenciales)

Curated by Marisol Rodríguez and the Atelier for Potential Exhibitions.

With the collaboration of Oscar Holloway

+info on the APE: https://www.facebook.com/pages/TEP/1414033588858133?fref=ts

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