San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, México

Maria del Carmen Mendoza Méndez (San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, 1977) and Jacobo Ánegles Ojeda (San Martín Tiljcate, Oaxaca, 1973) began their work as artisans from childhood. They were born into the world of “tonas” and “nahuales” (mythical creatures) thanks to their families, who had their own workshops of wooden figures. In 1994, they married and started working together. Over time, they founded the Jacobo and María Ángeles Workshop, a place specialized in the production of carved figures in copal wood, also known as “alebrijes”.

Jacobo and María’s artistic work is based on the research and interpretation of Zapotec symbols, iconography and worldview from which they gave life to their distinctive style. Their technical and aesthetic innovation ranges from wood curing processes, the application of gold leaf, high-temperature ceramics, silver jewelry, to the use of other materials.

With a strong commitment to art and their hometown, San Martin Tlicajete, the project went from being a workshop for two people to a place that supports the community and preserves tradition. The workshop currently generates more than 250 jobs, minimizing migration in the region and strengthening the craft of wood carving.

Jacobo and María found a way to communicate through narratives, creating a production line from artistic collections based on concepts, research and fantastic stories. Thanks to this, they substantially innovated in the conception of their pieces, which are internationally recognized as works of art.