Traditional Art Inspired by Mexico
Written By Elementary Teacher, Ms. Laura Voight
Alebrijes are a form of traditional art from the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. You have likely seen them in the popular Disney movie, Coco. While they were not highlighted within the movie, they are shown and explained as a part of the culture in southern Mexico and an important aspect to the holiday, Día de los Muertos. Known for the vibrant colors and unique patterns, they are exquisite pieces of art.
The alebrijes project was an opportunity for students to connect with the people of Mexico through a form of visual arts.
This project also provided the perfect opportunity for the Focus Level to “get their hands dirty” with an art project in their Principles of Design I class. The first two principles that the class learn about were contrast and pattern, two essential components of alebrijes. Since a part of the mission at the Academy for G.O.D. is to raise up a generation of children who are globally conscious, this was also the perfect opportunity to examine and imitate art from a foreign culture. The class learned about the history of alebrijes and how they are tied to the native Zapotec roots of Mexico. These designs are similar in style to Mayan and Aztec artistry.
The students set out on a journey to create their own alebrijes - only they would not be carving wood as the traditional sculptures are made. After learning about the symbolism behind animals used in the traditional Oaxacan art, they used newspaper, cardboard, paper towel rolls, and finally, paper mâché to make their sculptures. This alone was a week long process. Students learned how to use their hands to form what their minds imagined. They had to be resourceful with the materials given to them and persevere through the inevitable phase of art creation where you’re just not sure what, exactly you have created. In the end, the students themselves were surprised with their work! They were proud of their creations and several of them admitted to having created something that they liked very much, despite their conviction in the middle of the project that they had somehow created the ugliest art imaginable.
In the end, the students were able to connect to the people of Oaxaca through their endurance of artwork that did not come easy. Just as the artists in Oaxaca take time to carefully carve their animals from wood, the students had to mold and re-mold their animals with paper and cardboard. They had to recall their lessons on contrast and pattern and incorporate the traditional patterns used in alebrijes. They learned to not only craft a form of art that was not initially appealing to their eyes, so used to soft colors and open spaces, but to appreciate it as well. By then end of the unit, each student was excited to take home their piece and show their families what they had learned.
