Mexican Folk Art Influence

Inspired by my Latinx fans, who see a resemblance to alebrijes (ah-lay-bree-hays) in the imagery in some of the paintings I created in 2023-24, I decided to create a series of alebrije-inspired paintings.

Definition of Alebrijes

What are alebrijes? They are vibrantly colored, intricately hand-painted sculptures of animals, people, objects, or fantastical creatures. They are made from wood or papier mâché. This Mexican folk art originated in Mexico City, but Oaxaca City, in the state of Oaxaca, is now considered the epicenterfor alebrijes. I visited Oaxaca City in 2000 and have my own collection of alebrijes.

Paintings in this Show

The paintings in this show are illustrative of the Mexican folk-art influence: they are vibrantly colored with forms whose surfaces are patterned and visually stimulating. They display a joyful sensibility, a playfulness and sense of whimsy.

– LICITA FERNÁNDEZ