This is my third visit to the San Miguel de Allende area of Mexico within the past two years, but this visit started out in the state of Michoacan. Yes, that state. The one the U. S. Department of State says to defer non-essential travel to…and, yes, we went anyway. My reasoning…has the state department deferred non-essential travel to certain areas of Chicago where 82 shootings occurred over the July 4th weekend? Yes, we must all exercise common sense when traveling wherever we go in our world, but I also think Michoacan is getting a bad wrap and it’s really hurting the tourism in that state.
After researching, I knew that a visit to Capula (in the state of Michoacan) was a must to see catrina maestro Juan Torres‘ gallery. I’d coveted la catrina in my previous trips just because of their whimsical look, but had never purchased nor understood the true meaning until this visit. You see it all started with a drawing back in the 19th century by a famous engraver and newspaper illustrator named Jose Posada who mocked the European-influenced ruling, targeting the dress and mannerisms of the wealthy.
Fast forward, many artists have tried to produce la catrina, but none have succeeded like the talented Juan Torres, world-famous painter, sculptor and architect.
Amazing detail…
The property where his home and studio are located also includes a magnificent museum filled with Torres‘ painting and ceramic work. An adventure just to walk the grounds to view his art and the beautiful views.
Torres‘ spouse, Maria, tends to the gallery and oversees the working studio. She prepared my la catrina as if handling a newborn child…carefully wrapping each and every part for her upcoming travels. No language skills needed…what a sweetheart.
Throughout our travels, la catrina could be found everywhere…in various sizes, styles and attire.
hotel casa encantada in patzcuaro, michoacan, mexico
Over the years la catrina came to symbolize the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)…how appropriate as death seems to bring out the obvious…regardless of our status, everyone is equal in the end, right?
More adventures to come…thanks always for your wonderful comments about my photography!
Thank you so much for explaining “La Catrina” , often wondered but never relly understood.
Did you purchase the one holding the cigarette so casually between her bony fingers?
Adore the sculpture of the floating couple. So graceful.
Wonderful pictures.
Oh how I wish I could’ve purchased that one…but a touch out of my price range, ha! I settled for a much smaller one. Thanks so much Karen!
Such wonderful artwork, you have captured it so well 🙂
Thank you for visiting!!
On “sense and sensibility,” Ms. Robin, I’m so glad you have it and weren’t afraid to brave the wilds, so to speak. Yay for us, too, who get to see with our own eyes…through yours. Thank you.
Thanks Ginnie!
Way cool frissy. I would want them all… Beautiful colors and I love whimsical things like that, especially outside in the yard like the very last photo. Thanks for sharing. XoXo
I thought of you the entire time! xo
Good for you – I don’t follow rules, either. You did your research and followed your heart.
I just love the sculptures. My favorite is the one holding the cigarette. The sculpture of the couple is really beautiful, too. You’d miss so much if you listen to every warning.
I just love all antiques and oddities, unique one-of-a-kind pieces. I’d want to bring home so many things but having the photographs and memories are the best, too.
Thank you so much for sharing, as always.
Love you and enjoyed seeing your beautiful face again in the photo with Maria.
xoxoxo
I know you don’t follow rules…that’s why I like you! 🙂 Ha! Thank you so much Lisa!! Always enjoy your comments! xoxo
Your images are so lush and sensual, and all in the celebration of life through the contrast of death. FANTASTIC!
Wow, thanks Elena!
These are amazing and I would suspect out of my price range also, you look lovely and have definite smiling eyes.
Thanks shooter!!!
Incrediable color & detail. XO
Wonderful artwork, and somehow comforting to see death in bright colors.