Without a doubt, the art scene is everywhere in Oaxaca - paintings, pottery, carvings, sewing, weaving and the list goes on. So for a different speed we decided to try a couple of different art forms.
First up was print making. The studio we went to was half a block from our accommodation and appeared to be a cooperative of different groups providing classes. Our young instructor was patient with us as we completed our projects which much to my surprise turned out quite nice.
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| My Mexican Cat |
Then it was time to venture out of the city to one of the small villages on the artisans route. San Martín Tilcajete is known for its alebrijes. These brightly painted wooden carvings are beautiful in design (unlike the fake ones on the street). The 3 step process was explained to us and once hearing about it you understand why a genuine piece is so expensive.
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| Step 1 - the carver |
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| After it is cured for up to 6 months Step 2 - the restoration where cracks are filled and several steps later it is smooth and ready for painting |
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| Step 3 - the artists complete the piece either with their own design or following the design of a commissioned piece. One artist was working on a large piece that would take 5 1/2 months to complete |
When it came time to make our own figure, we were assigned one of the local masters to assist us - that was a blessing or I might still be there. She was great but I do think she was getting rather tired of us at the end - my dots were beginning to look be quite big! Not sure this masterpiece will be going up - perhaps it will be repainted for a second try at home.
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