Angélico Jímenez
From humble beginnings to becoming an international icon of Mexican craftsmanship, the story of Angélico Jiménez Hernández is a testament to passion, perseverance, and deep cultural roots.
Born on June 1, 1954, Angélico Jiménez is the fourth of five children, descended from a family dedicated to the countryside and, later, to crafts.
His father, the respected master of popular art, Don Manuel Jiménez Ramírez, instilled in him from an early age a love for wood carving, a tradition revered in the roots of San Antonio Arrazola.
Despite having only received up to the sixth grade of primary education, Angélico Jiménez found his true calling in his father's workshop, where he absorbed the secrets of carving and sculpture.
Alongside him, she explored markets and plazas, sharing her art with the world and facing the challenges of a time when Oaxacan crafts were just beginning to gain recognition.
But fate took a monumental turn in 1977, when filmmaker Judith Bronowski discovered the talent of the Jiménez family and decided to capture their story in a documentary that captured the essence of life in San Antonio Arrazola.
This project not only catapulted Angélico Jiménez's career, but also opened the doors to international opportunities, such as the successful exhibition in Los Angeles, California, in 1978.
Since then, the artisan has been a cultural ambassador of Oaxaca, taking his art to exhibitions and events around the world, from the United States to China, via the Vatican and Spain.
His nahuales, in particular, have won hearts and minds with their unique fusion of the human and the animal, inspired by the ancient traditions of her people.
Today, he perpetuates his father's legacy, sharing his art with new generations and representing his community, state and country on international stages.
Her story is a testament to the cultural richness of Oaxaca and a reminder that through art and dedication, we can transcend borders and unite the world in appreciation of our cultural heritage. He passed away last year