Join naturalist Nina Raj (Altadena Seed Library) and artist Cayetano Talavera for a hybrid event below Earthen Comforts, an installation that prototypes passive approaches to collective comfort in response to shade inequity and intensifying heat. A temporary infrastructure in a concrete space, the annual M&A pavilion in Craft Contemporary’s courtyard underscores an urgent need for tree canopy across Los Angeles and for living in relation with our native plant populations. Following a presentation by Nina on seed-keeping, tree-protecting, and community-building, participants will enjoy a hands-on cyanotype sun-printing workshop led by Cayetano that utilizes botanicals, light, and shadow.

Earthen Comforts is a courtyard installation by Liz Gálvez that stages mass and fiber as shared infrastructures against intensifying heat. Adapting passive cooling strategies from desert contexts, the project modulates shade, air movement, and light to offer visitors an experience of varied microclimates in the M&A x Craft Contemporary Courtyard.

Nina Raj is the founder of Altadena Seed Library, a project dedicated to community stewardship, rewilding urban spaces, and rekindling relationships to the more-than-human world. Her work includes educational programming, environmental organizing, and conservation seed banking. Through a partnership with LA County, Nina is working to bring to life her concept for a decentralized seed bank at nature centers across the region; by developing a seed banking curriculum designed for cooperative community stewardship, she hopes to build capacity for volunteers and docent naturalists to conserve the hyperlocal genetics of wild seed populations. In the wake of the Eaton Fire, she is also working collaboratively to heal contaminated soils and distribute seeds to fire-affected families. Prior to founding Altadena Seed Library, she spent over a decade in campaign development and creative leadership for environmental and purpose-driven brands.

Cayetano Talavera is a passionate fiber artist, zero waste fashion designer, and the creative force behind HECHO BY CAYE, based in Los Angeles, California. With a deep-rooted commitment to conscious fashion, Cayetano's journey into the world of sustainable design was shaped by his humble upbringing, where he discovered the importance of resourcefulness and waste reduction. At the heart of Cayetano's artistic process lies his deep connection with nature. Embracing the concept of slow and sustainable fashion, he lovingly hand-dyes each piece in small, carefully crafted batches. In la cocina de su mamá, Cayetano transforms foraged plants, homegrown flowers, insects, and even food waste into natural dyes. This approach not only adds a unique touch to his creations but also serves as a testament to his commitment to minimizing his ecological footprint.

Programs at Earthen Comforts are organized by Materials & Applications and produced as part of the M&A x Craft Contemporary Partnership. M&A is committed to providing programs to the public that are accessible and free to attend. Program tickets are now offered on a sliding scale starting at $0. Purchases of greater value contribute to artist fees, materials, and operating costs, and larger donations are always welcome and appreciated!

Contact the host of Earthen Comforts: Seeking Shade

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