Josefina, Guillermina, Irene, and Concepcion are the four Aguilar sisters from the village of Ocotlán, Oaxaca. They have become world-famous for their painted ceramic figures. Each sister works in clay, but each has their own distinctive style reflecting their own view of the world.

Josefina Aguilar gained international acclaim when her pieces were collected by Nelson Rockefeller during trips to Oaxaca in the 1970s. Most of the pieces created by the Aguilars focus on Mexican traditions and folklore — Frida Kahlo, Virgin de Guadalupe, Day of the Dead, scenes of the local market, ladies of the night, religious events or historical characters.

Josefina learned her craft from her father. Her skill began to be noticed when she was young, and by the time she was in her early 20s, the media in both the US and Europe were writing articles about her work. Interest in her art has continued to grow, and she is now considered a major folk artist in ceramics.

Her whimsical folk art are examples of the time-honored traditional handicraft called muñecas. Although Josefina is celebrated as a master artisan worldwide, her folk art is definitely a family affair. In classic folk-art tradition, the sisters now pass on their knowledge to their children.

Josefina is now blind; however, she continues working and creating whimsical figures from her imagination. Her children paint them for her.

Prolongacion de Morelos 428

Ocotlán de Morelos, Oaxaca 71510

951 571 0214   

josefinam2@yahoo.com