How is it made? The Making of an Alebrije Sculpture, "Oaxaca Snail"

Zeny and Reyna's families were master alebrije artisans who taught the young couple this traditional folk art. They developed a style of their own.
The natural shape of the copal wood branch dictates the shape of the creature. Each sculpture is carefully carved, sanded, and meticulously painted by hand…in the vibrant colors of the region.
"The snail symbolizes life that starts and ends in a spiral," the artisans explain.
You can see more of Zeny and Reyna's work here:
www.novica.com...

[@MisterAAB1]

I feel like these beautiful people, my people, are just showing up to work like dutiful and loyal employees. Knowing they are doing something rich in tradition but really only trying to perfect their craftsmanship each day. An honest dollar (peso). And I'm here like... this is a dream job. What a dream to retire my traditional American job here in the States and settle in my ancestral land, Mexico. Being exposed to spectacular local art and learning cultural traditions. One can dream.

[@patjenkins3402]

I have two of their animal sculptures from Novica-a porcupine and a purple humming bird which is hanging in our living room bay window. Our real hummingibirds come to visit is often in the Summer. Meticulously painted in vibrant colors-a real piece of art.

[@Ewureffe]

Beautiful 🌹

[@user-bn7pe7ll2l]

😀👍💙❤