"Mexico's folklore, traditions and fiestas are wonderful. They inspire me, as an artisan. My love for our colorful and emblematic handicrafts arose from walking down our cobblestone streets and lanes, those little corners of town filled with history and folklore.
"I've always liked painting, but I realized it was better to create small handicrafts so that people could take something of my beautiful hometown with them when they visit. In this way, San Miguel de Allende can travel to other parts of the world!
"My town is a place of Mexican enchantment — of history, dance and so much tradition. And this is how some of my designs were born, thanks to the inspiration of the world's most beautiful little city. For example, the Heart Aflame is typical of Mexico and emblematic in San Miguel. We have them in tin, wood, ceramics and other materials. I use wood for mine. I paint them by hand and decorate them with motifs as different and colorful as our Mexican culture.
"I love my country's culture. I love all our traditions and our fiestas, such as the Day of the Dead when we remember our loved ones with deep affection. I convey this tradition through designs alluding to these traditions, like La Catrina. She was created by the renowned illustrator, lithographer and caricaturist, Jose Guadalupe Posada, famous for his work on Mexican society in the early 1900s. I depict them in many different and vibrant colors, and this brings them to life again. Another icon is the beloved Virgin of Guadalupe, widely recognized and deeply rooted in Mexican culture.
"I've been developing, creating and perfecting décor designs, and working in different techniques since I was a girl. I always enjoy what I do. I like to transmit positive energy through my work. And I like my work to tell you something, remind you of someone, take you through the history of the culture where I grew up and the majesty of the place that saw my art come to life.
"I want each of my designs to carry the person who owns it to these cobbled streets filled with colors, to those little houses where such warm people live. But, above all, I want or traditions to be reflected in my artwork. This is why I fill them with symbolism, with beliefs, with roots and with contrasts."
It's Cactus: Your source for Haitian metal sculptures and other Fair Trade folk art from Haiti. Whether it is for your home or garden, metal wall art is universally wonderful! Haitian metal art is handmade by village artisans and created from recycled metal steel oil drums. Most importantly tho, it is Fair Trade, so everyone benefits, including you!
And that's not all! You will also find fabulous Latin American folk art. There is everything from carved wooden Santos and textiles from Guatemala, mantas and masks from Bolivia, ceramic art from Mexico, retablos from Peru, painted furniture from Ecuador, and authentic Day of the Dead decor from throughout the region. Doesn't matter if you're looking for colorful and whimsical or vintage and timeless, you'll find the perfect piece for you!
We invite you to take a look for yourself. Enjoy!