Collabed Cultures Blind Box Set

COLLABED CULTURES BLIND BOX SET Ana Can1 1Department of Arts & Sciences, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL 60625 Growing up in a single-parent household with a Puerto Rican mother, my exposure to my Belizean heritage was limited. As a result, I found myself primarily immersed in Puerto Rican culture, shaped by my upbringing and my mother's origins. This led to a situation where I often had to navigate the complexities of self-identification, feeling a disconnect from my Belizean roots due to my lack of knowledge about them. While this upbringing was what I knew and perhaps what was deemed best at the time, I've come to realize the significance of exploring and understanding the hidden facets of both my Puerto Rican and Belizean backgrounds. Seeking to bridge this gap and deepen my connection to my heritage, I've embarked on a project aimed at uncovering the lesser-known aspects of both cultures. Recognizing the vastness and diversity of culture. My project centers on creating a blind box set featuring culturally significant figures, each representing a unique aspect of Puerto Rican and Belizean heritage. This collection will not only serve as a personal journey of discovery but also as a means of sharing valuable insights into these rich cultures with others. In addition to the figures, the project will include meticulously designed packaging, accompanied by a small pamphlet detailing each figure's significance and providing a list of others that can be collected. Furthermore, I will create two informative posters exploring the symbolism, deities, and everyday significance of the Taino and Mayan cultures. To ensure authenticity and depth in my portrayal of these cultures, I've delved into extensive research on Taino and Mayan symbols, exploring their true meanings and how they intersect with daily life and spirituality. From this research, I've carefully selected symbols that resonate with me to include in the set, aiming to capture the essence and richness of both Puerto Rican and Belizean heritage. Through this project, I hope to not only enrich my own understanding but also contribute to the celebration and preservation of these vibrant cultures.