In The Farrell Auditorium

Miguel Valerio, Associate Professor of Spanish at Washington University in St. Louis and author of Sovereign Joy: Afro-Mexican Kings and Queens, 1539-1640

Explore the captivating world of 16th and 17th century Afro-Mexican kings and queens with author and scholar Miguel Valerio as he reveals the transformative power of festive performances in colonial Mexico. Uncover how these celebrations, illustrated in the Museum's current exhibition Art and Imagination in Spanish America, not only preserved ancestral culture but also redefined social standings and challenged racial hierarchies, showcasing the profound impact of Afro-Mexicans in shaping their own identities and the colonial landscape.