INSTITUTE FOR DOCTORAL STUDIES
IN THE VISUAL ARTS
By Tory Schendel-Vyvoda, Cohort ’23
Teotihuacán was conceived as a model of the Universe
—National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City
Teotihuacán originated in the first century CE following a volcanic eruption in the Cuicuilco region, which caused a mass migration to the northeast of the Valley of Mexico. Established as the first city in Mesoamerica, its name means "the place where the gods are born." Development spanned from around 100 BCE to 650-750 CE, with significant constructions like the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, reflecting the belief that Teotihuacán was the birthplace of the Universe. The city thrived until around 750 CE, when it experienced decline, possibly due to the rise of new city centers or internal issues. Today, only the core remnants remain, including the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the Citadel, and several palaces (Solís 28).
On January 10, 2025, students participating in the IDSVA Winter Residency were invited to tour the ancient site of Teotihuacán. They embarked on this journey early in the morning and made a stop at an artisan workshop before reaching the heart of the city. At the workshop, they learned about the various natural resources that the region has to offer. Students discovered the versatility of the agave plant and explored the numerous precious stones available, such as jade, obsidian, and opal. These materials can be crafted into sculptures, textiles, and more. By connecting with the resources used by ancient and modern descendants from the area, the students gained a deeper understanding of how communities can continue to thrive in Teotihuacán.
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Despite experiencing Giza, nothing truly prepares one for the profound impact of witnessing ancient monuments like Teotihuacán up close. Each culture's technological advancement presents its own unique significance, and the awe of being physically present among the ingenuity of places like Teotihuacán is difficult to convey. However, experiences like Teotihuacán are essential for emerging doctoral students in philosophy, art theory, and aesthetics. Although participants in the IDSVA program rely heavily on technology — utilizing live Zoom calls for lectures, study groups, and texting for communication — stepping away from these 21st-century conveniences to experience Teotihuacán in person invites reflection on the nature of technological progress. It raises questions about whether contemporary society is genuinely more "progressive."
Accessing these cultural sites is crucial as it compels individuals to reconsider their own time, reevaluate past human contributions, and appreciate the creativity of ancient civilizations in ways often overlooked when relying solely on textbooks or internet images of these great monuments. Moreover, being at Teotihuacán provokes profound questions: What role am I playing in the universe? How can I learn from this civilization to deepen my understanding of existence? In what ways can the cosmos influence my perspective on the world? This experience has reshaped my academic pursuits and opened my mind to a culture I previously knew nothing about. I appreciate IDSVA for its commitment to providing students with a diverse global education, and although I left Teotihuacán nearly three months ago, I still feel mentally present there, exploring the ancient city with my classmates and instructors.
Works Cited
Solís, Felipe. National Museum of Anthropology. Monclem Ediciones, 1999.