Thursday, April 8, 2010

HUGO LARIOS

The construction of Mexico's Chapultepec Castle began over two centuries ago by the order of Viceroy Bernardo de Gálvez. However, due to changes in Spanish captains overseeing the project, the fortress was not completed until after it was purchased in 1806 by the municipal government of Mexico City. Mexico is also the home of featured jewelry designer Hugo Larios.

Larios, a father of three and former accountant, draws much of the inspiration for his work from the manual arts of central Mexico's Huichol, or Wixáritari, people.

Although his Novica page contains only two items, they display Larios' amazing deft at capturing intricate patterns found in Huichol embroidery and beadwork. He handcrafts these items by threading multi-colored, tiny chaquira glass beads.

"My passion for jewelry is something I inherited from my parents," he says.
"I have always felt an affinity toward designing and making jewelry although I studied accounting. I strive to honor the talent and creativity of Mexican jewelers, and the rich artistry of the Huichol people."

I would love to see more of his work. The pieces at Novica certainly display the painstaking aspect of building the complex, tapestry-like patterns found in Huichol artwork; although he creates a separate collection in silver and gold (these items are not featured on Novica or elsewhere that I know of), his beadwork is a great reflection of his love of culture and artisanship.

"I took courses in gemology and silversmithing. My first piece was silver and turquoise ring and I participated in an art-jewelry project cultivating celebrated works of art from sterling silver. To me making jewelry is relaxing--it is like occupational therapy."
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Photo 1 (top right): Huichol Exuberance Beaded Bracelet with Gray Chaquira Glass Beads
Photo 2 (bottom left): Huichol Protection Bracelet with Diamond Pattern Multi-Colored Chaquira Glass Beads

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