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Oaxaca's
treasured techniques and designs have been lovingly handed down
from parents to children-in some instances for hundred's
of years. This vital intergenerational connection has ensured
the continuation of indigenous traditions in a fertile spectrum
of folk arts: ceramics, woodcarving, textile weaving, candle
making, tin work, basketry and jewelry to name a few.
Unfortunately, it has become increasingly difficult in the last
few years for Oaxaca's artist families to secure a livelihood
through the pursuit of their crafts. Young people, facing the
temptations of modernity and Westernization (coupled with recent
negative media coverage of Mexico), are especially likely to
abandon the art of their forbearers. This situation was exacerbated
by labor union protests that began in May, 2006 in and around
Oaxaca's capital city. The city has been peaceful and safe for
some time now, but as a result of U.S. Department of state "warnings"
against travel to Oaxaca, tourism has abated and the local economy
has acutely contracted. This has made even seasoned artisans'
careers less viable, and demoralizes young people who might
aspire to carry on the traditions of their families and pueblos.
Friends of Oaxacan Folk Art (FOFA)
was formed in June, 2007 in an attempt to help encourage and
promote the work of these financially troubled artists. |
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| Images from the catalogue "Oaxacan
Popular Arts in the New Millennium" |
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