Step into the whimsical and enchanting world of Nicario Jimenez as skeletal artisans prepare for the upcoming carnival in an Andean mask maker workshop. This captivating scene brings together tradition, creativity, and a touch of the macabre, showcasing skeletons meticulously crafting vibrant masks.
In this lively workshop, skeletal crafters, dressed in festive attire, diligently carve and paint intricate masks. The air is filled with the rhythmic sounds of chisels and brushes, as each mask comes to life with vivid colors and elaborate designs, ready to dazzle at the carnival.
Through his unique medium of boiled potatoes and plaster of Paris, Nicario captures the essence of Andean culture and the spirit of celebration. This piece blends humor with tradition, inviting viewers to appreciate the rich heritage and the joyful anticipation of carnival festivities.
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📏 14" x 16" x 3.5" inches with open doors.
-MIXED MEDIA - All the figurines are made from a doughy mixture of boiled potato and gypsum powder. Hand-painted.
- My works include my signature on the back of them.
- Please note the art is a handmade original so colors may vary from screen to screen.
Nicario Jimenez
Artist of the Andes
At our store, we are proud to offer a selection of Retablos created by the renowned artist Nicario Jimenez. Nicario's skillful compositions depict religious, historical, and everyday events, each scene intricately crafted with brightly colored figurines made from a unique doughy mixture of boiled potato and gypsum powder.But what truly sets Nicario's work apart is the personal connection he has to this ancient art form. Born in a peasant community in the high Peruvian Andes, Nicario's sculptures pay homage to the rich cultural traditions of his homeland.We are honored to share Nicario's work with our customers, knowing that each piece was created with care and dedication using only a small piece of wood resembling an enlarged toothpick. His Retablos have been showcased at prestigious exhibitions across the United States, including the San Francisco Craft and Folk Art Museum and the Museum of Man in San Diego.Nicario's work has even been selected by the Smithsonian Institution for its "Seeds of Change" exhibit and is now part of their permanent collection. We believe that by offering Nicario's Retablos at our store, we are not only sharing a beautiful art form but also a personal connection to the rich history and traditions of Peru.We hope that owning one of Nicario's Retablos will bring you as much joy and appreciation for this sophisticated folk art as it has brought us. We take pride in offering high-quality pieces that are not only beautiful but also imbued with a sense of cultural significance and history.