The Brooklyn Rail, a journal based in New York City that features local reporting for arts, culture, and politics, published an article in which Jan Hanvik took part.

Jan gave his testimony about the Pantzingo Ecotourism Center and explained his motivations for building up an international residency.

The article explores the intersection of artist residencies, ecotourism, and indigenous communities, focusing on emerging projects in Mexico, particularly in the states of Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Michoacán. By incorporating artist residencies into ecotourism initiatives, such as the one in Patzingo led by the P’urhépecha community, the region aims to create sustainable economic opportunities, preserve cultural heritage, and counteract outward migration. The initiative involves building local capacity for services like airport pickups, language classes, and tours, empowering the community to manage its tourism offerings and integrate into a global support network.

The article recounts the author’s relationship with Mexico, which started during the Vietnam War draft, seeking refuge from military service. The narrative shifts to a more recent experience in the town of Pátzcuaro, where the author, now a part of the community, is invited to a menstruation ceremony on Yuñuén Island. The article provides insights into the cultural exchange, spirituality, and personal connections formed during the author’s unconventional life journey.