Mexican cartonería is the creation of sculpture from paper or cardboard in a manner similar to papier mâché. This popular Mexican art form combines Spanish art techniques with indigenous motifs and themes and is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and legends from Mexico. Opportunities to make paper sculptures abound in Mexico and here in the United States, as well. Cartonería figures are frequently incorporated into ofrendas or altars for Day of the Dead ceremonies. The design and construction techniques are also used to make cartonería for other traditional holidays and celebrations, such as Christmas, Easter, and Independence Day, in the Latino communities of California.
©Sam Hernandez
A native of Mexico City, Rubén Guzmán received his training in cartonería in the early 1990s from members of the Linares family, famous for their colorful, fantastic papier mâché sculptures. He has brought his skill, artistry, and enthusiasm to the Fruitvale neighborhood of Oakland, where he is active as an artist and as a volunteer in community activities, especially those aimed at creating an awareness and pride of Latino identity. He says, "I think that it is the responsibility of the artist as a tradition bearer to keep alive these traditions and not let them fade due to the distance or the passage of time. Latino artists must teach the new generations growing up in the United States to understand and recognize their cultural identity."
Guzmán teaches art classes throughout the area and his sculptures and installations have been exhibited throughout the Bay Area and as far away as Germany.
©Amy Kitchener
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