Arts and Crafts of Mexico

Rating:
Summary: A great introduction to Mexican art and crafts!
Review: This book has a lot of variety, with information and photos for all sorts of Mexican arts and crafts, such as textiles, masks, sugar figurines, altars, jewelry, ceramics, paper, and carvings. There is also a section with a brief description of each of the different native groups in Mexico, describing their main crafts and where they live. She has a nicely written chapter on collecting art in Mexico and her philosophy about that.

Rating:
Summary: Colorful treasues
Review: This is a book that is both visually appealing and highly informative. If you are one who is drawn to the beautiful folkloric arts of Mexico that are steeped deep in tradition, dating back and inspired by pre-colombian culture, than this is a book for you. The color photographs are eye candy to be consumed frequently not just when the book is read. Since many different types of arts are covered this is the type of book that can be read over an extended period of time if so desired. Since one of the authors area of expertise is the textile arts, she dedicates about a third of the book to the colorful weavings of distinct groups from different regions of Mexico. All of the sections covered are interesting and it is a matter of taste but I found the section on the Ceromonial and Euphemeral Arts of Mexico of partcular note. This chapter covers the other worldly art of the Huichols amongst others. If you are a craftsman,artist or collector than these pages will light up your interest or fuel your imagination. Also of particular interest is a map and several pages on Mexico's indegenous people which is a nice introduction to the featured artisians. Recommended for those that appreciate the stunning and colorful arts of Mexico and like a brief yet informative explanation of the featured plates shown. This is an amazing panoramic view of the intricate workings of Mexico's highly skilled artisians.