A primer on collecting Mexican Folk Art
I love Mexican folk art! Whenever possible, try to buy directly from the craftsmen who created. The pieces that speak to me, I continue and add to my own collection. Others, share with family and friends as gifts, or sell to other collectors and fans to home decor.
Many people collect museum quality works of art by world renowned artists from Mexico. Others opt for practical items such as talavera dishes, hand-woven textiles and silver jewelry. Some prefer the articles of ceremonial or religious nature, such as masks, beads, prayer Bowls and retablos. And others are attracted to bright colors and whimsical design of Oaxacan wood carvings known as alebrije, painted tin ornaments, and the Day of the Dead thumbnails. Each of these elements, and many others not mentioned, contribute to the diversity and charm of Mexican folk art.
History Mexico is represented in the Mexican folk art. Each piece tells a story or provides a symbolic representation of the Mexican people and culture. Some folk art reflects indigenous cultures of the past, many lost to colonization by the Spanish. Spanish influences are also present in some works, such as Christians, pagan and folk songs. A true collector must study the beliefs and cultural values of Mexico in depth to fully understand Mexican folk art.
As a new collector, you will want to know what to look for to ensure that their Mexican folk art is authentic. A key element is the use of indigenous materials each region of Mexico. For example: alebrije are made from the wood of the copal tree. This tree only grows in the valley of Oaxaca. Craftsmanship is another telling indication. Skill and style may vary among the artisans and the price and quality will reflect their ability. However, the real work is always aesthetically pleasing, well done, and is usually labeled in some way, whether signed by the artist, with his people took note, or at least the label Made in Mexico.
If you are able to visit Mexico, buy crafts directly from artisans or buying from local shops in the region where it is. Do not buy from vendors in tourist areas unless you want to pay inflated prices for items that may be of inferior quality. If your purchase is limited to specialty shops, galleries and online stores in the U.S., make sure you're dealing with a reputable seller and always check out their return policies before buying.
For additional help, there many resources available at your local bookstore. The best, though expensive, is Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art by Fernandez de Calderon Candida. Many others are good hands in the guidelines for a specific type of folk art or region of Mexico.
A final and most important thing in my opinion. When buying and collecting Mexican folk art, which is helping the artisans earn fair wages through trade which allows them to support their families. You are also supporting the continuation of ancient traditions and crafts older generations, rather than adopting mass production of cheaply made copies of the real thing.
Now, let's go shopping!
About the Author
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Juan Talavera Mexico 2009
