Paint and Sip Alebrijes: Mystical Art, History, Culture and Practice in Tilcajete

Come hang with us and paint a beautiful alebrije!

Oaxacan alebrijes are surreal dream-like wooden sculptures composed of elements of different animals and/or mythical creatures and painted with brilliant colors and patterns that require dedication, patience, and a keen attention to detail. As you’ve probably seen on the streets, the Oaxacan alebrije tends to take form in more organic, recognizable animal figures carved and painted in a similar fashion.

Alex, Criselda and their mom Benita, all members of a renowned family of alebrije painters, invite you to join them and Tlayudona to embark on the adventure of immersing yourself in colors and patterns as you learn to paint your own alebrije.  All hosts are proud members of Tilcajete, a local village where Oaxacan alebrijes originate, and they will share their town´s history and relationship with this colorful craft.  They will explain the historical meaning behind different color selections and the series of zapotec-originated designs used to decorate alebrijes. (Beginners, have no fear–the earliest alebrijes were painted with a series of lines and dots, and Criselda is also ready to demonstrate a “how to” for the less artistically-inclined!)

This seasonal variation is oriented toward Day of the Dead, with special figures to paint in commemoration of the holiday. (We will also have typical alebrijes available for painting.)

You´ll get the basics–color, design, and some anecdotal information about the process that transforms copal into a woodcarving. This experience will launch directly into the practical side of this craft as you paint your piece. You´ll also get to sip delicious local coffee or mezcal while you paint!

This is an introductory course and no prior experience or skill level is required. It will be offered bilingually in Spanish with English translation. It takes place in the village of Tilcajete.

This course includes:

• Your own 3-5 inch hand-carved alebrije (There will be various models to choose from. Alex has extra elaborately-carved seasonal models available at an additional cost but there are plenty of alebrijes available for free within the cost of your workshop.)
• Homemade meal made with love by our host family
• Your choice of 6-8 acrylic colors
• Brushes, palettes, aprons, and all materials necessary
• A pictoral and spoken overview of the history of alebrijes in Oaxaca and group instruction regarding painting techniques
• One-on-one help with your detailing technique
• Transportation to and from Tilcajete