Equally intriguing are the varying techniques involved in
the creation of crèches. By focusing on the method of
production, this exhibition highlights the heritage and
skills of the artists. One example of this is a wall-hanging
cross from Haiti that features the Nativity scene painted
on oil drum metal. It is a common practice amongst
Haitian artisans to recycle metal from the oil drums that
frequently arrive at Port-Au-Prince by hammering flat
then painting the large containers. A crèche consisting of
three nesting eggs painted with the events of the Nativity
references the traditional folk art tradition of Russian
matryoshka
dolls demonstrates another example. Lastly,
an Argentinian crèche’s use of chaquar plant fiber as
an art medium highlights the talents of Wichi women
artisans.
As a student intern at Loyola University Museum of
Art, I thoroughly enjoyed curating a diverse selection
of crèche—some annual favorites as well as some lesser-
known pieces—united through the lens of material
and technique. During the curation process, I aimed
to accurately present culture and artistic process in a
wide variety of crèche from around the world. While
the exhibition recalls the stories of the Holy Family and
the other figures of the Nativity, it equally highlights the
artisans who have meditated upon the Biblical event
in differing, yet equally intriguing, ways. Although
each object exhibits unique materials and techniques
from different countries, every crèche in the exhibition
illustrates the common narrative of Christ’s miraculous
birth—a global reminder of the similarities that lie at the
center of our celebrated differences.
9
Amanda Malmstrom
is a senior at Loyola University
Chicago double majoring in history and art history
due to her passion for travel, art, and research. A
native of St. Louis, Amanda grew up visiting the city’s
beloved St. Louis Art Museum and now loves living
in the museum-rich city of Chicago. Amanda has
worked as a Museum Education/Curatorial intern at
LUMA since her junior year and enjoys collaborating
with coworkers and docents on programs and
exhibitions. Curating
The Craft of Crèche
has been a
great experience, combining
her love of the holiday season
with the opportunity to work
with pieces from the James
and Emilia Govan Collection.