Sunday, January 29, 2012

Artisan, Jose Delgado’s Indigenous Costa Rican Masks


This week I was very fortunate to attend Jose Delgado’s art exhibition in the School of International Service Building at American University. I didn’t know about the event beforehand and I just stumbled upon it on my way to class, when I noticed his wife arranging the beautiful masks.

Being an art connoisseur, I had no choice but to stop and appreciate his work. She took the time to talk to me about his recent move to the US from Boruca, a place that is home to a tribe of indigenous people living in the southern zone of Costa Rica. His wood-carved sculptures represent a history of cultural resistance and showcases Costa Rica’s exotic flora and fauna.

Boruca mask making was previously traditional “diablito or devil designs.” However, they now include ecological-devil and ecological-indigenous face sculptures. The masks with names including Toucan Diablito and Owl & Jaguar are carved on light balsa wood and are breathtakingly beautiful.

They make excellent decorations, gifts and collector pieces. They are available for sale now. Get some of his priceless pieces now while you can, because after viewing them, I know this talented artist is definitely heading for greatness.

You can view some of his work below and at https://picasaweb.google.com/109787983936686006182

 
 
 
 

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