It is Hispanic Heritage Month, and Xbox Mexico uploaded a beautiful article recently in celebration of International Day of Indigenous Peoples. According to the piece, artisans representing three indigenous communities in Mexico used Xbox controllers to share their beautiful cultural artwork. The results that both celebrate Xbox and cultural creativity are awe-inspiring.
Xbox is mixing modern and artisanal art to put together unique and marvelous controllers. The work was done by artisans who inherited the techniques of their culture, passed down by their ancestors. There have been some very impressive Xbox controllers over the years, but the artisan creativity of the ones created to celebrate International Day of Indigenous Peoples sets them apart.
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There are 68 indigenous communities in Mexico. To celebrate their cultural heritage, artisans from Huichol (in Nayarit), Olinalá in Guerrero, and Tenango in Hidalgo were chosen for a special Xbox project. The artisans used Xbox controllers as a canvas for creativity, and each community varied drastically from one another. The Huichol-designed controller used vibrant beads to tell its story, which is inspired by the religious practice of the people. Each symbol on the design has a unique meaning, including corn for prosperity, a butterfly for good luck, and an eye that represents God protecting children.
The controller from Guerrero is more simplistic in nature, but no less stunning. The black Xbox controller was painted with natural oils made from the land of the region. The floral design represents the culture and history of the people of Guerrero. Lastly, the Hidalgo-themed controller uses embroidery, bright colors, animals, and nature. The technique takes patience, as it is said that the mood of the artisan shines through in the final product.
It is incredibly important to celebrate diversity. Each person brings something unique to the table, and cultures from around the world have so much to offer. Many lessons can be learned from cultures all over the planet, and that is certainly true with indigenous cultures. From Xbox's perspective, it is quite impressive that both a Spongebob Xbox and unique one-of-a-kind Xbox controllers created by artisans in Mexico can sit side by side.
While usually with good intentions, the gaming world doesn't always get Hispanic Heritage right, as last year Twitch faced backlash for Hispanic Heritage emotes. However, Xbox's idea to work directly with people of the indigenous communities in Mexico is an excellent way to celebrate with honor and respect. Thanks to a few Xbox controllers, people in and outside of the gaming community are able to see the value of the indigenous communities in Mexico.
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