Published: October 26, 2007
Virgin of Guadalupe, Religious Folk Art of Mexico
By Courtney Puffer 
The Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the most powerful women in the Americas. She is a leader of armies, a focus of spiritual devotion, a tender motherly comfort as well as inspiration for artists.
Since her miraculous appearance to the Indian Juan Diego near Mexico City in 1531, the New World Virgin Mary or Aztec Virgin has stood for cultural pride and equality. She is one of the most widely recognized icons in the world. Guadalupe is paradoxical. She is both Queen of Heaven and La Morenita a little brunette. She evokes the freshness of roses and the chill of the moon. Devine yet touchable.
Santos, Saints or holy images speak of generations of Hispanic artistic traditions and religious devotions. After the Europeans brought Catholicism to the New World, the Native People adopted the tradition of carving Santos and painting retablos to aid in worship in churches, family chapels, and home altars.
Work by Northern California artists: Jack Alvarez, Gayle Anita, Celia Rodriguez, Craig Martinez and Sergio Martinez, will add to the contemporary Folk Art of Mexico. In addition there is an unusual early 20th century Nicho (offering box) with a retablo of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, as well as other 19th retablos of Our Lady and Milagros covered crosses.
The Gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday 10:00 to 5:00.
Virgin of Guadalupe & Religious Folk Art of Mexico, November 10, 2007 to December 31, 2007
Visit Pacific Western Traders for the Second Saturday Reception, November 10 from 6:00 to 9:00
Courtney Puffer
Pacific Western Traders
305 Wool Street
Folsom, CA 95630-2550
916.985.3851
Email: PWTFolsom@aol.com
Web address: www.pacwestraders.com
See Also: Saturday Art Walk in Folsom, September Success
Maidu Echoes from the American River
Shopping Bag Show, 35th Anniversary Celebration
Virgin of Guadalupe & Religious Folk Art of Mexico - 2006
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