Exploring the Olmecs at IMAS

Date: January 18, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)

Join us at IMAS to celebrate the fifteenth anniversary of the iconic Olmec Colossal Head! Dive into the rich history of the Olmec civilization and other Mesoamerican cultures with a day full of engaging activities and educational experiences.

Event Highlights:

• Olmec Presentations: Gain insights into the fascinating world of the Olmecs through special presentations.
• Hands-on Workshops:
  • Create your own rubber ball inspired by ancient Mesoamerican ball games.
  • Weave a colorful bookmark using traditional techniques.
  • Mold your own miniature version of the colossal Olmec head.
• Special Talks:
  • Learn from IMAS Curator, Marcelo Ramirez Garcia-Rojas, at exclusive talks scheduled for 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Admission:

• Included with general admission.
• Free for IMAS Members.
  Purchase Tickets Here

About the Olmec Head at IMAS:
The Olmec Colossal Head at IMAS is a reproduction of the original sculpture housed at the Museum of Anthropology in Xalapa, Veracruz. This remarkable piece was donated to the City of McAllen, Texas, by Fidel Ferrera Beltran, Governor of Veracruz, and was officially received by Mayor Richard Cortez in January 2010.

The Olmec civilization, a prominent Pre-Columbian culture, thrived along the Gulf Coast of Mexico in present-day Veracruz and Tabasco from 1400 BC to 400 BC. They are recognized for laying the foundational elements of later Mesoamerican civilizations. To date, 17 colossal Olmec heads have been discovered. The IMAS sculpture is a replica of Colossal Head 8 from the San Lorenzo site in Veracruz. The original is crafted from basalt (volcanic rock) and is on permanent display at the Museum of Anthropology in Xalapa.

Scholars believe these colossal heads were created to honor Olmec rulers, symbolizing power and leadership.

Celebrate this legacy and explore the wonders of the Olmec world at IMAS!