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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.