Almas Alfines - Kindred Souls
Almas Afines - meaning Kindred Souls, was a coming together of creative practices, friendships, and shared cultural exchange, held over five days in the heart of Mexico City.
Presented by COPERARI at Dolores 54, the project brought together artists, makers, musicians, chefs and collaborators from Oaxaca, New Zealand and beyond - spanning textiles, painting, sculpture, ceremonial candle making, gastronomy, mezcal, cacao and sound.
Throughout the gathering, COPERARI rugs transformed alongside the space itself - from gallery backdrop to dance floor, grand banquet dining room, and finally a quiet meditation sanctuary. Based on original paintings by New Zealand artist Jodi Clark and brought to life through collaborations with weaving and textile artisans in Oaxaca and India, the pieces carried warmth, texture and personality through every evolving moment of the project.
It was incredible to see the rugs come alive within the atmosphere and energy of Almas Afines - grounding the space through conversation, music, shared meals, ritual and storytelling. Across the week, the gathering unfolded through intimate jazz evenings and vinyl sessions, a traditional Zapotec feast prepared by Evangelina Aquino Luis, mezcal and cacao tastings, and a closing cacao and sound meditation.
Alongside the textile works were creations by Jorge González Velázquez, Eliza Donald and Doña Viviana Alavéz of Casa Viviana, whose practices each brought their own distinct spirit and presence to the experience.
At its heart, Almas Afines was less about a singular event and more about creating space for connection — honouring slow process, collaboration, and the people and practices that continue to shape COPERARI both creatively and personally.
For us, these pieces are works of art meant to be lived with, gathering memories alongside you, shared across meaningful moments, and passed down through generations.
The project reflected the spirit of cooperari - to collaborate - and our ongoing commitment to community, cultural exchange, and thoughtful creative practice across borders.
