Collecting Mexican
Folk Art 101 by Sheila Hull-Summers
I love Mexican folk art!
Whenever possible, I try to buy it directly from the artisans who create
it. The pieces that speak to me, I keep and add to my own collection. The
others, I share with family and friends as gifts, or sell to other collectors
and home decor aficionados.
Many
people collect museum quality artwork by world renowned Mexican artists.
Others choose practical items such as talavera dishes, hand-woven textiles
or silver jewelry. Some prefer items of a ceremonial or religious nature
such as beaded masks, prayer bowls or retablos. Still others are attracted
to the bright colors and whimsical design of Oaxacan wood carvings known
as alebrije, painted tin ornaments, and Day of the Dead miniatures. Each
of these items, and many more not mentioned, contribute to the diversity
and charm of Mexican folk art.
The history of Mexico is
depicted in Mexican folk art. Each piece tells a story or provides a symbolic
representation of the Mexican people and their culture. Some folk art reflects
the indigenous cultures of the past, many lost to the colonization by the
Spaniards. Spanish influences are also present in some works, as are Christian,
pagan and folkloric themes. A true collector must study Mexican beliefs
and cultural values in depth to fully understand Mexican folk art.
As
a new collector, you'll want to know what to look for to be sure your Mexican
folk art is authentic. One key element is the use of indigenous materials
from each region of Mexico. For example: alebrije are made from the wood
of the copal tree. This tree grows only in the Oaxacan valley. Craftsmanship
is another telltale clue. Skill and style will vary between artisans and
the price and quality will reflect their ability. However, authentic work
is always aesthetically pleasing, well made, and is typically labeled in
some manner, whether signed by the artist, with his or her village noted,
or at least labeled Hecho en Mexico.
If you're able to visit Mexico,
buy folk art directly from the artisans or purchase from local shops in
the region where it is made. Do not buy from vendors in tourist areas unless
you wish to pay inflated prices for items that may be of an inferior quality.
If your purchases are limited to specialty shops, galleries or online stores
in the U.S., make sure you are dealing with a reputable seller and always
check out their return policies before buying.
For additional help, there
are numerous resources available at your local bookstore. The best, though
pricey, is Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art by Fernandez De Calderon Candida.
Several others are good hands-on guides pertaining to a specific type of
folk art or region of Mexico.
One last thing and the most
important in my opinion. When you buy and collect Mexican folk art, you
are helping artisans earn a living wage through fair trade which enables
them to support their families. You're also supporting the continuation
of ancient traditions and generations old craftsmanship, rather than endorsing
mass-produced cheaply made copies of the real thing.
Now, let's go shopping!
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About the Author
Sheila Hull-Summers is a
former educator and the owner of Sunrise Imports, an e-commerce site specializing
in Mexican folk art and other unique handcrafted gifts from Mexico, Central
America and the U.S. Visit online at http://www.sunriseimports.net
