Alejandro Guadalupe García

The Forests of Pátzcuaro Feed Artisanal Excellence

In the forests that surround Pátzcuaro, Michoacán, Mexico, pine grows fervently. For this reason, the Purhepecha are known for their woodwork. Over time many intricate designs have been lost as the global marketplace demands “modern” and minimal furniture. Alejandro Guadalupe García, however, is determined to renew interest in the traditional and detailed designs made up of pre-hispanic Purhepecha symbols.

Alejandro Guadalupe García begins with either locally sourced pine, or red cedar and piñon from Veracruz. A band saw is used to cut the wood before it can be sanded. Detailed designs that stem from the natural surroundings (birds, butterflies, flowers, and fish) are drawn on each piece of wood before chisels and gouges are used to carve them in. 

Alejandro’s father made traditional carved furniture, teaching Alejandro along the way. At the age of 12 Alejandro won his first youth artisan competition in Michoacan. The experience inspired him to continue honing his craft. He has since won numerous awards and is featured in Banamex Cultural Foundation’s “Grandes Maestros del Arte Popular Mexicano. Veinte Años”. Both of his sons, Alejandro Guadalupe Zoreque and José Alfredo Guadalupe Zoreque, are following in the footsteps of their father and grandfather as artisanal woodworkers.