
The last 18-plus months have been extremely busy for me. I’m grateful for all of the commission work. Fortunately, I’ve been able to squeeze a few of my own, related creations into that time.
I’ve lived in Arizona for the last 34 years, and during that time, I’ve been taken by many traditions of nearby Mexico, especially the annual Dia de los Muertos celebration. Some of the folks who’ve seen my latest works, which are related to Dia de los Muertos, have said that the tradition seems morbid to them, while others–like me–understand its significance.
The animated movie Coco explains the underpinnings of Dia de los Muertos very well. Every year, on the first of November, the people of Latin America–especially Mexico–celebrate their lost loved ones. They believe that as long as their departed loved ones are remembered and spoken of, they will never be truly gone.
My latest three creations of “Katrinas” reflect that tradition. These are three hand-painted ceramic tequila bottles that are not only beautiful in themselves, but are also a celebration of Dia de los Muertos. I worked hard to capture the Katrinias in a way that will give the observer a feeling of a moment: sipping this wonderful tequila and showcasing these beautiful bottles in a simple setting. Together, the three Katrinas are quite spectacular. I should mention that the brand of this tequila is Epifania Azul, and may be difficult to find, but well worth the effort. It took me two years to acquire all three bottles. Thanks to my good friend John Gabaldon at Los Dos Molinos, I was able to complete the trio, and thus the paintings.
It will be special to celebrate Dia de los Muertos this year with the three Katrinas looking on in my studio.