Inspiration
Inspiration for this project began as a birthday gift idea for my grandmother: customized La Lotería tablas inspired by our family.
Personal connection to the project comes from memories of playing La Lotería at my grandparents’ kitchen table. We would gather around, bring out the pinto beans, and see who would be taking home the jackpot. Our 25 cent contributions would add up quickly. :)
It is my intention that the message of this project will be informed by the current realities and atrocities facing Latin American immigrants and communities in the United States. My goal is to bring visibility and humanity to these stories, utilizing La Lotería as my medium.
Research for this project will be an ongoing process. However, in an effort to learn more about the history of La Lotería, I watched a lecture presented by Dr. Gloria Arjona, lecturer at CalTech and cultural entertainer. She covered its origins in medieval Italy, connection to the ancient Mesoamerican board game, Patolli (in which players sometimes gambled their freedom and could become enslaved until their debt was paid), and the stereotypical portrayals of every character in the game: from “La Dama” to “El Apache”.
La Lotería is a game of community, something that feels especially meaningful at a time when communities are under threat. The role of el gritón (“the crier”) is also significant. In the simplest iteration of the game, the gritón calls out each card, but in more performative versions, the gritón improvises dichos (verses/short stories) inspired by the cards. This improvisation incorporates narrative into the game dynamics. This storytelling element will be crucial for sharing the experiences of Latin American people right now. Musical traditions are also tied to the game, which can lend the project to include musical elements as well.
While the form of this project still needs development, I do believe this project will tell an important message. I intend to present it with care and respect without diminishing the gravity of what is happening now.
