Artisan Traditions of the Sacred Valley
by Kennedy Leavens, founder of Awamaki
In this exciting lecture, Kennedy Leavens discusses life in Quechua villages and how women are building sustainable futures for their families through the work of Awamaki, a non-profit that helps Andean artisan women start their own businesses. She also explores the rich artisanal and textile traditions of the Sacred Valley and the role they play in Quechua culture and the modern economy.
Mystic Motifs of the Ancient Andes
by Samantha Encalada, Director of Institutional Relations at the Larco Museum
In this session, Samantha Encalada, Director of Institutional Relations at the Larco Museum, explores the intimate bond that existed between pre-Columbian societies and the natural world, and how they were represented in pottery, metals, stone and textiles for posterity, open for us to explore.
Lima’s Melting Pot
by Javier Puente, PhD Georgetown University
Peru's capital holds more than a third of the country’s population. This session follows Lima from its pre-Columbian origins through Spanish rule to its cultural explosion from twentieth century to today.
The Nature of the Andes
by Javier Puente, PhD Georgetown University
This session explores how the dramatic elevations of the Andes mountains have affected Peruvian cultural, political, and social developments, from ancient times to the present.
The Peruvian Culinary Boom
by Javier Puente, PhD Georgetown University
Within the last decade, Peru has acquired a privileged place in the global culinary landscape. This session illustrates the potential and challenges of cuisine as an element of twenty-first century nationalisms.
Machu Picchu’s Legacy
by Javier Puente, PhD Georgetown University
Machu Picchu lies at the core of Peru’s archeological and historical heritage. This session explores Machu Picchu's history of neglect, as well as the manifold preservation challenges that lie ahead.
Land of the Incas
by Kim MacQuarrie, four-time Emmy winner and Peru explorer
This session discusses the pre-Columbian period in Peru, including the rise of the mighty Inca Empire leading up to the Spanish Conquest.
The Conquest of the Inca Empire
by Kim MacQuarrie, four-time Emmy winner and Peru explorer
This detailed session explores the conquest of Peru by Spanish conquistadors, including the capture of Inca Emperor Atahualpa and the subsequent series of battles that led to the Spanish victory.