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Alebrijes

Alebrijes are intricate and brightly-colored Mexican folk art sculptures that have captured the imagination of people around the world. These fanciful creatures, often made from papier-mâché or carved from wood, are unique to the Mexican state of Oaxaca. They are a popular form of artistic expression.

 

The origins

The history of alebrijes comes from the traditions of Oaxaca’s indigenous communities. The Zapotec and Mixtec peoples, who have inhabited the region for centuries, have a long history of carving and sculpting objects from wood, such as masks and toys.

The first creatures were created by a man named Pedro Linares. He was a Mexican artist who became famous for his papier-mâché sculptures. In 1936, Linares fell ill and had a vivid dream in which he saw strange, fantastical creatures that combined the features of different animals. When he recovered, he began to recreate these creatures as sculptures, using his papier-mâché technique. He called them alebrijes, a name he heard in his dream.

The popularity of Linares’creatures grew, and they soon became a symbol of Mexican folk art. Today artisans all over Mexico make alebrijes, but the most skilled and sought-after pieces are still made in Oaxaca.

 

Creation of alebrijes

Alebrijes are typically made from wood or papier-mâché. The process of creating them can take several days or even weeks. The first step is to choose the type of wood or paper that will be used for the sculpture. For wood creatures, artisans typically use the wood of the copal tree, a type of tropical hardwood that is native to Mexico. The wood is carefully carved to create the shape of the fantasy animal, and then sanded down to create a smooth surface.

For papier-mâché alebrijes, artisans begin by creating a wire frame that will serve as the base of the sculpture. Layers of paper are then applied to the wire frame, using a mixture of glue and water to create a strong and durable structure. Once the paper has dried, the artist can begin to paint the alebrije. He usually uses bright colors and intricate designs to bring it to life.

 

Symbolism

Alebrijes are not just colorful and whimsical sculptures – they also have deep symbolic meaning in Mexican culture. Many indigenous communities in Oaxaca believe that alebrijes are the spirit guides that can protect and guide individuals on their life’s journey. Each alebrije has its own unique personality and characteristics. Alebrijes often have animal features for their symbolic significance.

For example, an alebrije with the wings of a butterfly might represent transformation and growth. A creature with the horns of a bull might represent strength and resilience. The colors used on the alebrijes also have symbolic significance. Red might represent passion and energy, while blue might represent tranquility and calm.

 

Global appeal of alebrijes

Alebrijes have become increasingly popular around the world, thanks in part to their striking appearance and unique cultural heritage. They have been featured in movies such as Pixar’s “Coco”. The movie tells the story of a young boy who dreams of becoming a musician and must navigate the world of the dead with the help of his alebrijes.

In addition to their appearances in popular culture, many museums and galleries around the world exhibit alebrijes. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors have captured the attention of art enthusiasts. The cultural significance has made them an important symbol of Mexican identity.

As interest in alebrijes continues to grow, so too does the number of artisans creating them. Many of these artisans come from families with long traditions of woodcarving and papier-mâché, and they take great pride in their work. The creation of alebrijes is not just a craft – it is an art form that requires skill, creativity, and patience.

Alebrijes are a unique and captivating form of folk art that have captured the hearts of people around the world. From their origins in the dreams of Pedro Linares to their place in contemporary popular culture, alebrijes are a symbol of Mexican identity and creativity. Their intricate designs and vibrant colors have made them an important part of the global art scene. Their cultural significance continues to inspire and fascinate those who encounter them. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply a lover of whimsy, there is something about alebrijes that is sure to capture your imagination.

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