Thanks for visiting!
This website was designed to tell the story of my artwork and to present some pictures of finished pieces. If you would like information on the creation or purchase of a nicho, please click on the 'contact us' link at the left.
The idea for Los Nichos was born in 2007 on a hillside in Jalisco, Mexico. I was traveling with family in a remote region inland from Puerto Vallarta. We were bumping and pounding our way through the mountains to San Sebastian in my sister's car. As we struggled to climb the highest peak the road got worse and worse- and we hadn't seen another soul in hours. All of a sudden my sister remarked: "Gee, I guess I should have brought a spare tire..." Panic began to set in, and my niece was sure we would be lost forever on the side of the road. They say that 'humor is the best medicine', so I suggested we say a prayer to the Virgin of Pomegranates. There was no logic for this idea, but it did lighten things up and we made it over that hill. Later on we laughed at our adventure, but I decided to make a shrine to our protector.
That was the first nicho. I built it by hand with ceramic clay to resemble the tin nichos created in Mexico and Peru. I started by making my own clay stamps to add designs and texture, and soon there were more nichos- all unique and different. It has been an enjoyable and rewarding project, and I know I have found my 'niche' in ceramic art.
My nichos incorporate Mexican folk art with my own ideas about shrines and memories. All the pieces begin their life empty- ready to fill with whatever meaningful objects their owner might choose. The box is a shell for holding a collection of icons and treasures. These things give each nicho its own identity. I decorate some of the nichos myself-with found objects, amulets, and pictures.
Nichos have been filled to pay homage to veterinarians, mermaids, the Madonna of Mother Earth, and the "Kitchen Virgin". They can also hold different collections at different times- for any soul or event that deserves to be honored.
Most of all... NICHOS thrive on imagination!
NEW! I am now making hand formed and stamped tiles, mirror frames, and sun faces. Take a look on the "All About Us" page.
Questions and inquiries are always welcome... enjoy!
DECEMBER 2010: Catrina necklaces and earrings make their debut. Hand built with stone skulls, glass beads, and other found objects. Each piece is a unique work of art. Other hand built jewelry also on display at the Clayground... check out the "All About Us" page.
