| From June 5 - August 14, The Folk Tree presents an exhibition highlighting the variety of
Mexico's artistry in clay, metal, papier maché, wood, glass and more. On view are creations
by some of Mexico's most renowned folk artists, as well as pieces by anonymous craftspeople
working in the traditional styles and techniques of particular regions. The Folk Tree has an
extensive and ever-changing collection, assembled as a result of the travels of owner Rocky
Behr, who has been immersed in Mexico's artistic heritage for over twenty-five years.
A reception for the exhibition is scheduled on Saturday, June 5, from 2 - 6 P.M. Mexico's Best includes many pottery masters. Hilario Alejos Madrigal, from San JosÈ de Gracia, Michoac·n, is known for his glazed bright green "pineapple " pots with their distinctive appliquÈ work, which are made from local clay. Large burnished platters from Tonol· on view include pieces by master potters Javier Ramos and Salvador and Arnolfo Vasquez. The polychromatic ceramic figures of the Aguilar family from Oaxaca are on display as is the figurative work of Enedina Vasquez. Vasquez' fanciful Atzompa-ware is created with unglazed clay in natural colors. And, the legacy of HerÛn Martinez (who died a few years ago) from Acatl·n, Puebla, is represented by his functional vases, pots and candelabras which have bird, fish, duck and other animal motifs. Other notable pieces included are the large jaguars by Umberto Bautista of Chiapas and the black pottery of the Pedro Martinez family from San Bartolo Coyotepec in Oaxaca. Painted woodcarvings from Oaxaca are known for their brilliant color and fine detail. This popular art form has been practiced by generations of Mexican families. Their subjects are figures and animals reflecting Mexican myths and folklore. Works on view include pieces by the Jimenez and Morales families. Carved religious figures by the Tinoco family represent another carving tradition. In addition, the "fantastic" papier machÈ creations of Joel GarcÌa are displayed. GarcÌa, from Mexico City, trained with the renowned Linares family, whose papier machÈ sculpture elevated the medium to the realm of fine art. GarcÌa's figures, conjured up from his imagination and the world of dreams, have earned him recognition well beyond Mexico's borders. There are many examples of Mexican metal work from Santa Clara and Oaxaca. Copper cauldrons, jugs, vases and dishes from Santa Clara del Cobre from the workshop of Abdon Punzo are shown with Oaxacan tin crafts. Oaxacan artisans cut the tine with shears, and then emboss and solder it, leave it plain or paint it with bright, translucent colors. The Folk Tree is located at 217 S. Fair Oaks Ave. in Pasadena, only fifteen minutes from downtown Los Angeles (off the end of the 110 freeway and a fewl blocks from the heart of Old Pasadena). The Folk Tree Collection is a few doors north at 199 S. Fair Oaks Ave. Store hours are: M-W, 11-6; Th-Sat., 10-6; Sun, 12-5. Call (626)795-8733 for more information. |
|
|
