Mexican artists continue to find inspiration in the birth of Jesus. And the Instituto de las Artesanias Jalicienses near Parque Agua Azul offers a gamut of creche scenes, some of which, pictured here, are not likely to be found in the Christmas markets that pepper Guadalajara.
The Institute’s two large floors are replete with all types of local handicrafts, including “rustic” wood-and-woven-straw furniture. In December, the goods include a selection of small nativity scenes. (Figures average about four inches in height.)
This year, in addition to a selection of traditional creches, the Institute is showing an uncommon, abstract 15-piece set by renowned Tlaquepaque clay sculptor Julio Cesar Nuñez for 261 pesos. Nuñez, whose lineage is of distinguished artists, has added a plump, red devil to the usual cast of characters.
Also showing unusual flair, is a metallic (brassy and coppery) 12-piece nativity scene for $416 pesos. The set is lightweight, although the sheep, donkey and goat are solid metal. The capes of the human and angel figures are etched with delicate patterns.
Another highlight of the Institute’s unusual merchandise is a heavy, Huichol-made scene of clay and beads. At 2,262 pesos for 14 pieces, this is the highest-priced creche set in the Institute, but of course beadwork is time-consuming.
A one-piece straw, fabric and cornhusk creche is appealing for the color and winsome dynamism of its figures. Entitled “Nacimiento Chico de Casita,” it costs 226 pesos.
Instituto de Las Artesanias Jaliciences, Gonzales Gallo 20 (near Agua Azul Park on the Calzada Independencia). Open Tuesday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (33) 3030-9080. www.jalisco.gob.mx/wps/portal/iaj.
M
useo Regional
Guadalajara’s Mueso Regional is showing a rare nativity scene crafted from palm fronds. The nacimiento consists of 35 pieces, each about 50 centimeters in height, acquired by the museum in 2005. The purpose of this public display is to pay a posthumous tribute to Don Antonio Aguilar Perez, a craftsman from San Juan Bautista de la Laguna, in the municipality of Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, who died in December 2010. The creche scene will be up until January 8.