Collecting Mexican Folk Art 101

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.

Article written by Sheila Hull-Summers.

Article Source: http://www.articlemonk.com

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