Iván Fuentes
Epifanio Fuentes Vásquez and his extended family have been producing alebrijes for decades. Epifanio Fuentes, his wife Laurencia Santiago Hernández, and their children Iván, Zenen, Efraín, Rubí and Julia are among the best carvers and painters in San Martin. Among the sons of Epifanio, Iván Fuentes Santiago is one of the most talented carvers and painters, having begun carving at the age of 7 watching his parents and grandfather. While his carvings of cats, dogs, wolves, anteaters and lizards, all appear especially life-like, without being total photographic representations, Iván’s work stands out by his meticulous and highly detailed painting. His sculptures differ pleasantly from the static depictions of animals of other artists and artisans. The composition of the different colors is harmonious, the design imaginative and reminiscent of the paintings of his indigenous ancestors.
We walked the streets of San Martín Tilcajete and visited every alebrijes shop there, and the consensus was unanimous, on account of his decorative, innovative and detailed painting methods, Ivan’s work stood out above the other shop owners in San Martín Tilcajete. Ivan continues to grow in his artistic expression. We believe that Iván will continue to grow as a young master of wood carving, and at the same time, set himself apart from the crowded field of competitors because of his unique style. As with most artisans, Iván and the entire extended Fuentes family struggles to keep alive this rich tradition. We are pleased to have his work on display.
