Mexican handcrafts and folk art is a complex collection of items made with various materials and intended for utilitarian, decorative or other purposes. Some of the items produced by hand in this country include ceramics, wall hangings, vases, furniture, textiles and much more.[1] In Mexico, both crafts created for utilitarian purposes and folk art are collectively known as “artesanía” as both have a similar history and both are a valued part of Mexico's national identity. Mexico's artesanía tradition is a blend of indigenous and European techniques and designs. This blending, called “mestizo” was particularly emphasized by Mexico's political, intellectual and artistic elite in the early 20th century after the Mexican Revolution toppled Porfirio Díaz’s French-style and modernization-focused presidency.[2] Today, Mexican artesanía is exported and is one of the reasons why tourists are attracted to the country.[3] However, competition from manufactured products and imitations from countries like China have caused problems for Mexico’s artisans.[1][4]
- ^ a b "Mexican Popular Arts". Archived from the original on 2010-03-12. Retrieved 2009-11-28.
- ^ Pomar, María Teresa (Nov–Dec 1999). "Centenaria presencia de las artesanías" [100 years of arts and crafts] (in Spanish). No. 33. Mexico City: México en el Tiempo. Retrieved 2009-11-28.
- ^ "La belleza y originalidad de la artesania mexicana" [The beauty and originality of Mexican arts and crafts] (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 2010-03-10. Retrieved 2009-11-28.
- ^ "Peligra artesanía por piratería china" [Arts and crafts in danger due to Chinese imitations]. Terra (in Spanish). Mexico City. Notimez. 2005-11-17. Retrieved 2009-11-28.