In the heart of “Rodeo Drive”, PLAZA FABIOLA presents an opportunity to learn the Oaxacan Art Style of Painting
Alebrijes (hand-carved animals & creatures)
2 HOUR CLASSES TO BE HELD FRIDAY, NOV 27TH & SATURDAY, NOV 28TH
$40 (usd) per person, includes all Materials, Refreshments & Light Snacks to be served
Advance Enrollment Required
15 Students per Class
Instructors: Zeny & Reyna Fuentes
Zeny Fuentes is a Zapoteca Indian and fourth generation woodcarver from San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico. He began carving and painting when he was seven years old and was taught how to carve by his father, Epifanio Fuentes who is considered the most famous carver in San Martin Tilcajete – known for his angels and religious figures, his work is sold throughout Mexico and the US.
Zeny continues the tradition in the family workshop where he creates his incredible art with his wife, Reyna Piña Ramirez, and their four children, Fatima, Laura, Mary Guadalupe, and Zenen.
All their pieces are made by hand and carved from copal wood. This wood is very important because it is the traditional wood used to carve alebrijes and also used to make incense to use in religious ceremonies. Each part of each alebrije is decorated with affection using handmade brushes and maguey cactus thorns. Symbols of Zeny’s culture, history and nature of the valleys of central Oaxaca are key themes in his work.
Zeny has demonstrated his carving process and exhibited his work in numerous museums, galleries, schools and educational conferences throughout the US. The fine quality of his work is recognized by collectors everywhere.
He began showing his work at the early age of 14 when he went to his first international exhibition in Arizona. In the 1990s, Zeny and Reyna’s work was showcased at many special events throughout Mexico and the US. As their renown grew, the Walt Disney Company even commissioned a number of special pieces to be put on display at Epcot Center in Orlando, Florida. Zeny is most proud of the opportunities he has had to demonstrate and teach directly to the public.
Acrylic paints are used to finish the incredible pieces. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the demand for Oaxacan carvings became popular. In 1992, the Smithsonian featured well known Oaxacan carvers. American Folk Art dealers flocked to Oaxaca to begin their collections of these unique works of art. Painted woodcarving is a major art form and source of income in three pueblos near Oaxaca City. The Fuentes family resides in the carving pueblo of San Martin Tilcajete.
Zeny won First Place at ENART, San Pedro Tlaquepaque 2012 and first place at Galardón Oaxaca 2012 with his Wild Bull.
ENROLL AT PLAZA FABIOLA COURTYARD BOUTIQUE – RODEO DRIVE – PUERTO PEÑASCO – 638-380-5111