In the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, a captivating artistic collaboration challenges conventional narratives and redefines the essence of a Maya legend.
Muralist Juana Alicia and writer Tirso González Araiza have joined forces to present “La X’Tabay. El libro de los libros” (“The X’Tabay. The Book of Books”), an exhibition on view at the Palacio Cantón Regional Anthropology Museum.
Their work, a blend of captivating illustrations and thought-provoking text, delves into the enigmatic tale of X’Tabay, a mythical figure often portrayed as a malevolent seductress who lures men to their demise. However, Alicia and González Araiza offer a refreshing perspective, reinterpreting X’Tabay as a symbol of female empowerment, environmental consciousness, and harmonious coexistence with nature.
Breaking Free from Stereotypes
Alicia, who is originally from the United States, emphasizes their mission to dismantle preconceived notions surrounding gender, nature, and the very essence of X’Tabay.
“The intention is to delve deeper and educate ourselves about the public’s opinions and ideas,” she explains.
Their artistic endeavor challenges the traditional portrayal of X’Tabay as a malevolent spirit, instead presenting her as a liberator of female sexuality, unconstrained by societal and religious norms. “We propose a more harmonious relationship between bodies, and we also offer a critique of the role of the Church,” Alicia asserts.
A Contemporary X’Tabay
Alicia’s reinterpretation of X’Tabay is firmly rooted in the present, as evidenced by the contemporary setting depicted in their 15-meter mural-like book. Children are seen engrossed in their smartphones, drones, and automobiles, reflecting the pervasiveness of technology in modern life.
When asked about X’Tabay’s contemporary persona, Alicia envisions her as a woman fiercely protective of her environment, keenly aware of her interconnectedness with nature. “She would be a contemporary woman who defends the value of her surroundings and is conscious of the role she plays in nature,” she affirms.
Tirso González Araiza, Alicia’s artistic partner and husband, highlights the exhibition’s aim to showcase the influence of oral tradition on their work. “The story is enriched by the narratives we’ve gathered,” he explains. But then questions arise: Did it happen this way? And so, we begin to elaborate on other possibilities while preserving the essence mentally.”
Beyond the Myth
González Araiza also challenges the notion of X’Tabay as solely a Mayan or Spanish legend. “It’s a blend of both,” he asserts. “But there’s this idea of portraying her as an evil woman who punishes drunk men who mistreat their wives. However, our research has also revealed that she takes in abused and abandoned children, rescuing them. So, she’s not entirely evil.”
“La X’Tabay. El libro de los libros” is an invitation to reimagine a deeply rooted Mayan legend, challenging stereotypes and embracing a more nuanced understanding of the female spirit. Alicia and González Araiza’s masterful collaboration is a testament to the power of art to inspire, challenge, and transform.
Meet the artists
The duo will engage in a conversation at the museum, inviting the public into their creative process and shedding light on their reimagined X’Tabay. This event, 7 p.m. Thursday, delves into the depths of their artistic choices and the profound messages embedded within their work.
If you go
The exhibit is on view at the Palacio Cantón Regional Anthropology Museum until May 20. Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry at 4:30 p.m.) Admission: $95 general; free for students, teachers, and INAPAM cardholders. Free admission for all on Sundays.
