The wood carvings, often known as Alebrijes, are traditionally carved from copal wood, a soft and workable wood native to Oaxaca. Because the wood contains a high amount of moisture, the carving and drying process can take many months before painting begins. Once dried, artisans carefully hand-paint each piece with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, making every carving unique.
These imaginative sculptures, often inspired by animals and spiritual symbolism, are most closely associated with the Oaxacan towns of San Martín Tilcajete and Santiago Arrazola, where the tradition has been passed down through generations.
