Reflections of Life in Huancayo

Bernardo Pedro González Paucar comes from a long tradition of imaginería makers. Imaginería–the making of crosses, retablos, and mixed figures–has roots in the Huancayo region of the Peruvian central highlands since the mid-16th century. His work focuses on saints and other imagery important to the people of Huancayo.

In order to create such figurines, maguey wood must be collected, cut, and dried. Once the form is created, Bernardo uses gypsum paste and earthen ochres to create fluid shapes and finely painted details. All of Bernardo’s creations are reflections of daily life in his community of Huancayo, “It reflects their feelings, their experiences, their activities, their parties, their dances, their pain…”

Bernardo Pedro González Paucar was born in the small town of Santa Bárbara de Aza, Huancayo, Peru in 1955 to a family of traditional artists. It was his grandfather, Pedro Abilio Gonzales Flores, who in 1996 was recognized with the "Grand Master of Peruvian Crafts" award, who took Bernardo under his wing. Over the years Bernardo has found his own style, straddling the lines between respecting tradition and finding innovation. He has received numerous awards including the Joaquín López Antay medal, granted by the Congress of the Republic of Peru, and the UNESCO Recognition of Excellence for Crafts 2014.