The community is invited to “Exploring the Olmecs” on Saturday, January 17, at International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) to learn about Olmec civilization and celebrate the sweet sixteenth birthday of the Olmec Head sculpture found on museum grounds, Colossal Head 8 (Cabeza Olmeca).

Visitors can deepen their understanding of Olmec and Mesoamerican civilizations through special talks beginning with IMAS Curator Marcelo Ramirez Garcia-Rojas at 11:30 a.m., followed by a presentation at 1 p.m. by Dr. Servando Hinojosa, Department of Anthropology at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Throughout the day, visitors can also enjoy hands-on activities including jaguar mask-making, ceramics, and community art-making experiences.

“The Olmec civilization existed roughly 3,000 years ago in modern-Mexico and are considered the ‘Mother Culture’ that inspired the other great civilizations of Mesoamerica,” stated Marcelo Ramirez, IMAS Curator. “Many of the technological contributions of their society are still in use today.”

A highlight of the event is a large-scale community piñata build led by artist Josué Rawmirez, who will guide visitors in creating a giant replica of Colossal Head 8. Rawmirez previously guided hundreds of visitors in a group mural piñata build last October at the Día de los Muertos Festival, on display now at the IMAS. This community art-making activity is supported by an Arts Respond grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

Roni Cortez, Director of Education, shared, “We’re excited to celebrate another year of Exploring the Olmecs at IMAS through education and art as we learn more about the Olmecs and other Mesoamerican cultures.”

The cost for entry is general admission, $9 for adults, $5 for children, students, and seniors, and $3 for Museums for All (WIC/EBT). Admission is free for IMAS Members, public school educators, military, and first responders. Coiling ceramics workshops are available for a $5 add-on fee. More information can be found at theimasonline.org or by phone at (956) 681-2800.

IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.