Velvet Paintings

Velvet painting is basically when a painter uses dark velvet in place of paper or a canvas and paints colors on it. The dark background allows the colors to stand out and shine brightly. This particular form of painting became popular in the early to mid 1900's in Mexico and was introduced to Americans in the 60's by Doyle Harden. Like today, many people were trying to survive the economic crisis and looking for work. Finding a decent paying job was/is a sturggle so people had to use the resources they had to make a living for themselves or their families. Like many velvet painters, Americans that have been effected by the fall in the economy are doing the best they can and trying to find trades that will help make them money. More people are trying to save money by growing their own crops and trading with friends and other family members. Some people are making clothes for their families just to stay "above water". I think it's funny how in the book it said that the nude paintings sold quickly and Walgreens ordered all nude paintings...wwe say now that sex sells and it's crazy how it did as well even back in the 50's, and 60's.
If I had an Ell student that was ridiculed for sharing this particular family tradition with the class, I would try to make them feel as proud as I possibly could. Talking to my class about being sensitive to everyone's ideas and stories would be the first step to addressing the issue of "making fun". I would inform my class that we are all from different backgrounds and we need to listen and respect everyone; just because someone might not do things they way another family does, doesn't mean it's wrong on stupid. Everyone should be proud of who they are and should be able to tell each other about their family traditions and if they don't understand why people may do the things they do, it's my job as the teacher to explain to them why the best of my ability.