The Mysterious Civilization That Came First: Colossal Heads, Altars, and Pyramids of the Olmec
✨ Who were the people behind the colossal stone heads of ancient Mexico?
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we're traveling more than 3,000 years into the past to explore the Olmec—Mesoamerica's first major civilization and an important influence on cultures that followed, including the Maya and Aztec.
Emerging in what is now Veracruz, Mexico, around 1200 BCE, the Olmec created a remarkable culture whose influence can be seen throughout the history of Mesoamerica. Yet despite their importance, much about who they were and how they lived remains a mystery.
Join Sacramento City College Art History Professor Nicole Lazo as we explore what the art and architecture left behind by the Olmec can tell us about their world. We'll examine their monumental architectural complexes, including the first pyramid structure in Mesoamerica, their altars, and, of course, the colossal carved stone heads that have become one of the most recognizable creations of the ancient Americas.
Along the way, we'll discover what we know about this early civilization, the questions that still remain, and how the Olmec helped lay foundations that would influence Mesoamerican cultures for centuries to come.
Nicole Lazo is an adjunct professor in the Art History and Humanities Department at Sacramento City College, where she is also the creator and co-faculty advisor of the SCC Art History Club. A proud product of the community college system, Nicole earned associate degrees in Language Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies before completing bachelor's degrees in both Art History and International Relations at UC Davis. She later earned her M.A. in Art History and Visual Culture from Lindenwood University, with a focus on Ancient Latin American studies.
A lifelong lover of art and ancient cultures, Nicole is also an avid traveler who has visited many of the places, monuments, and objects she teaches about. These firsthand experiences allow her to bring ancient civilizations to life and help audiences form a deeper connection with the people and cultures behind the art.
Expect colossal monuments, ancient mysteries, and a fascinating look at one of the civilizations that helped shape Mesoamerica. 🗿✨
🕰 Event Details
What should I expect?
6:30 - 7:30 : people arrive and chats
7:30 - 8:20 : lecture
8:20 - 8:35 : Q&A
8:35 - 9:00: more time for chats, hanging out, and then we're out!
Who's invited?
Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people come solo to our events, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!
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