The Mexican Folk Art And Mexican Folk Art

When we hear the word “Art” certain images come to mind. We think of great masterpieces of epic battles, and cathedral walls depicting angels and demons. This however, is a very small part of the art of the world. One form of artwork has been seen in every civilization, on every continent; Folk art. Folk art at its root is art including paintings, textiles, furniture, and carvings done by a country's indigenous people. These pieces are often functional, and serve a purpose on top of being aesthetically pleasing.The techniques used by these people are often passed down generation to generation, and originate in the community itself. This means most of the artisans do not have any formal training in their craft. Many took apprenticeships, or learned from watching village elders.

Throughout the worlds history, many forms of folk art have been established. One easily identifiable is that of the Mexican folk art. Mexican folk art has great range and variety. This is primarily because the difference in available materials spread throughout the land. There are over a hundred types of clay, different woods and metals, and even a vast array of vegetable fibers used in textile work that let to a drastic amount of recognizable differences in the art. Artists used a large variety of animal, mineral, and vegetable products to dye and paint their pieces. There is also a very different stylization based on geographic locations and split of communities. This is due to the settling of invading Mesoamerican culture mixed with the Spanish and Arabic cultures. Although there is a vast amount of traditional folk art products from Mexico, pottery, wood burning, glass blowing, and paper mache are staples of the Mexican folk art culture. When Mexico ...

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...n very rigid positions. Another type of folk art widely seen were figureheads for ships and boats. Woodcarvers from other countries migrating to the U.S brought skills that blended together to form the American wood carving style. Wood carvers also used their skills to carve pillars for barbershops and statues of Indians to advertise cigars and cigarettes.

Folk art has had a tremendous impact on our culture as a whole. It’s gave people a livelihood , and added a vibrancy to our history. What started out as a means of practicality is now a full fledged art movement. Folk art is an example of what our planets people can do if they get the chance to be resourceful and creative. From the vivid blown glass of Mexico, to the Intricate headscarves of Russia, folk art has touched every corner of the planet, and made us more colorful as a people.