Exhibition Walk-Through: Taming The Desert

Solsiré Cusicanqui will discuss the fantastic creatures, powerful ancestors, and mythological beings found in this exhibition, which illustrates how ancient Andean societies looked for spiritual meaning and numinous help in an unpredictable and challenging world. Taming the Desert: Resilience, Religion, and Ancestors in Ancient Peru (November 10, 2024–April 13, 2025) showcases 34 Moche and Nasca ceramics and textiles from LACMA and the Fowler Museum at UCLA, and explores how ancient Andean societies used religion and ritual to navigate the challenges of the Peruvian desert coast. Despite scarce resources and climatic extremes, the region fostered urbanism, trade, and advanced crafts. The exhibit highlights these artistic expressions while drawing parallels to modern issues of climate change and resilience. More Info below.