Glass Rice and OF THREADS co-curated group exhibition.

OF THREADS, a collective created by Alma Lopez and Sergio Mondragón celebrates the work of Mexican American designers and artists in the U.S., symbolizing the deep connections between generations and the blending of Mexican heritage with the American experience. This duality, much like fabric woven from interlaced threads, reflects how cultural traditions are passed down and adapted, weaving narratives of migration, family, and resilience into the collective Mexican American identity. Rooted in an ancient lineage—Mestizos, Indigenous peoples—we embody a spectrum of identities like Mexican, Latinx, Latino, Hispanic, and Chicano. Each term reflects a unique aspect of who we are, shaped by history, culture, and personal journeys. At its core, our shared story embraces the beauty of this duality, blending the richness of ancestral heritage with a modern, evolving identity.

OF THREADS honors the artisan and craft traditions central to Mexican culture, which continue to express identity and cultural pride. These threads of heritage, intertwined with the modern American experience, create a strong, resilient fabric—symbolizing the unity and strength of the Mexican American community. Through the collective’s work, Lopez and Mondragón shine a spotlight on the enduring influence of these traditions and the creativity that flows from this cultural fusion.

EL LISTON CAFE is our first immersive exhibition that captures the intricate journey of coming of age as a Mexican American. It celebrates identity, culture, and the moments that shape us. Each artist reflects on the experience of growing up in two worlds. Set within a non-traditional gallery space, the exhibition offers a glimpse into our perspective, transforming the environment into an immersive experience that reflects a Mexican American home. Through this lens, visitors are invited to engage with the warmth and complexity of our heritage.

This exhibition explores embracing our Mexican American heritage while finding our place in the broader Bay Area community. Through diverse mediums such as furniture, fashion, art, and objects, EL LISTON CAFE invites us to reconnect with our roots, the strength of our community, and the beauty of our dual identity.

More than just an art exhibition, EL LISTON CAFE honors the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the Latino community in the Bay Area. It’s a space where we celebrate our shared heritage and the vibrant contributions Mexican Americans continue to make to this community.