In the Mexican state of Michoacán, there are at least 30 villages widely known for their beautiful award-winning handmade objects from clay--each village producing its own unique recognizable style. Their creations spring from the artisans dedication to the traditional artesanía of his or her ancestors and community. Some of the pieces are used for preparing or serving food, while others are intended only for decoration and pure enjoyment, such as the pineapples of San Jose de Gracia, candelabras from Santa Fe de la Laguna, and the whimsical painted figures from Ocumicho. Below is an excerpt of a Mexico By Hand interview with master Ocumicho artisan, Zenaida Rafael Julian.
