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About Friends of the Ixchel Museum
Friends of the Ixchel Museum (FOIM) is a U.S. charitable foundation established in 1984 that promotes interest in the Mayan textile tradition of Guatemala and the work of the Museo Ixchel. In this way, it contributes to the understanding, preservation and protection of this important cultural legacy.
FOIM is made up of Guatemalan and North American volunteers who share an interest in Guatemala and their commitment to increase appreciation of Mayan textile art.
Every year, the Friends sponsor publications and projects both in the U.S. and in Guatemala. Among them are educational programs, ethnographic research and photographic documentation in several communities, as well as the classification and cataloging of the museum’s collections of textiles and photographs. It has also made possible the English translation and publication of several of the museum’s works, the production of videotapes in Spanish and English, and a Spanish language activity book for children.
Its work to publicize and promote Guatemalan textiles includes putting on exhibits in the United States and publishing a biannual newsletter describing both FOIM activities and those of the museum.
The Museum itself is located in Guatemala City. A short and engaging overview can be found in an article in Revue Magazine (May 2017 issue). For more information, see the ‘Museum Highlights’ section of this website.
Friends of the Ixchel Museum Current Bulletin

Renovated Sala IV Amazes
Even museum galleries need a facelift. New technologies, recent research, trends in fashion and public interest – all come together to set the table for important changes in how visitors experience objects and education.
Thanks to a pandemic lull and a significant bequest, the Museo Ixchel was able to completely redesign and reinstall one of its main galleries. When the museum reopened in March, visitors were treated to brighter and more accessible exhibits, making use of modern conservation-friendly lighting and fresh colors. The entire layout was rethought, and new systems for mounting mannequins were designed. There were new and additional displays of trajes, including recently-acquired contemporary pieces, as well as descriptions and examples of modern techniques such as machine embroidery or printed designs (sublimado). In addition, the collections of masks and Andrés Curruchich paintings were integrated, adding richness to the understanding of ceremonies and festivities. The gallery updated and retained its detailed bi-lingual labels, but additional information will be made available through QR codes.
In this issue:
- Renovated Sala IV Amazes
- Borgatti Bequest
- School Exhibits Ramp Up
- Mayan Traje Exhibit Lives on in New Jersey
- Anne Hermann Lamborn
Read the full article below, or download.FOIM_Spring22.newsletter (1)
President’s Letter
Be sure to read the latest Letter from our President!
Board of Directors
President
Ana-Maria V. Zaugg
Vice-President
Yolanda Alcorta
Secretary
Susan M. de Riojas
Treasurer (Acting)
Loa P. Traxler
Board
Chase Davis
Shannon Davis
Emilie de Brigard
Amy DiPlacido
Elisa Maria Dyer de Fitzpatrick
Maya Fledderjohn
Susan Hurst
Luciana Jabur
Anne Hermann Lamborn
Carlos Nottebohm
Raymond Senuk
Monika Snodgrass
Emeritus
Margot Blum Schevill