Maria de Jesus Gonzalez Laguna (Corvallis) is a master of Mexican Folklórico dance. Folklórico dances are the traditional dances from the states of Mexico that use expression, technique, style of dress, and use of accessories specific to each place. An Oregon Folklife Network Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program Master Artist in 2012, Gonzalez Laguna began to dance at age 9.
Bio
Maria de Jesus Gonzalez Laguna is a traditional dancer and culture teacher. She teaches ballet folklórico – the national dances of Mexico’s states. These traditional dances also include wearing the traditional dress and using traditional props appropriate for each dance (e.g. fans, swords, etc.). Born the last of nine sisters in Celayo, Guanajuato, Mexico, Gonzalez spent early childhood in a small, rural village where she experienced traditional Mexican culture and art. At age nine, Gonzalez moved back to Celaya, the city of her birth. There she first encountered a cultural center and began to learn about Mexican folklore. When she turned fifteen, her teachers encouraged her to study to become a Fine Arts teacher, which she did. After finishing her degree, Gonzalez got married and moved to the USA. Gonzalez is committed to sharing her knowledge of Mexican folklore with her family and community. She now teaches classes in Mexican culture and folklore for children and adults, inspiring families to participate in their traditional culture through dance, music, stories, and celebrations. Sharing her knowledge and skills is essential to Gonzalez, she says, "because the people who learn feel important, proud, and confident about what they present in front of an audience and the public appreciates and learns about our folklore." Gonzales is a 2012 Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program awardee with Oregon Folklife Network.
