Tienda de Balones de Futbol y Bolas de Trapo
Tienda de Balones de Futbol y Bolas de Trapo is the first version of the street store created in Oak Park, IL as part of the 2017 Terrain Biennial. Curated by the amazing Sabina Ott.
Fútbol is a world wide sport, enjoyed by rich and poor alike. There are many who can’t afford store bought balls, but resourcefully use whatever is around to entertain themselves. Old clothing, rags, newspapers and other garbage has been used to create toys and other common practical items, even before the invention of plastic, which is now abundant in all of our environments.
The tradition of recycling materials to make toy balls exists from Africa to Central and South America. While their techniques are slightly different, the concept of recycling, wrapping, tying, and building stronger communities is the common thread between all of them.
Special Thanks:
Sabina Ott
Marium Baker. Host.
J. Mario Contreras