Izúcar de Matamoros, Puebla

Asistant name: Lizeth Ana Canny Avila Morales

Alfonso Castillo Merino is a sixth-generation ceramic artist from Izúcar de Matamoros, Puebla, a town renowned for its rich tradition in polychrome clay artistry. From the age of nine, Alfonso began painting in his family’s workshop, guided by his father, Alfonso Castillo Orta, a master artisan who received Mexico’s National Prize for Sciences and Arts in 1996.

Alfonso’s creations encompass a diverse array of handcrafted pieces, including skulls, Trees of Life (Árboles de la Vida) with various themes, candelabras inspired by Frida Kahlo, animals, Mexican kitchens, Catrinas, and crosses adorned with intricate motifs. He also produces bowls and vases featuring elaborate painted patterns that reflect the cultural heritage of his hometown.

Each piece is meticulously crafted from scratch. The process begins with preparing the clay by straining and mixing it to achieve the desired consistency. The molded pieces are then dried, fired at medium temperature, hand-painted with acrylics, and finished with a transparent varnish for protection.

Through his work, Alfonso continues to honor and innovate upon his family’s artistic legacy, ensuring the preservation and evolution of Mexican folk art traditions for future generations.