NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?
SUMMARY
They’re called fantastic animals, brightly colored wooden creatures inspired by the world of Mexican magical realism. Giant versions of these animals are on a tour across the U.S., celebrating Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and promoting diplomacy during a contentious time.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Where do these creatures originate from?
- How high are the statues, and how much do they weigh on average?
- Who is Efrain Fuentes and what does he do?
- What do indigenous artists like Fuentes rely on for their income?
- Why is art used as a diplomacy instrument, according to Greco?
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
- How does this art connect to politics and diplomacy, according to the video?
- What is your major takeaway from the video? Did it change how you view art?
Media Literacy: If you could travel to Mexico and view these art pieces, what questions would you ask of the artists?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
Go to this website and read more about Oaxacan wood carvings, then discuss with a partner.
- Who first created Oaxacan wood carvings?
- What year were Oaxacan wood carvings created?
- Which creature was your favorite?
- Can you make any connections between the creatures and politics purely based off of looks?
Written by Payton Alfieri, PBS News Hour Classroom's intern, and News Hour's Luke Gerwe.
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