Angélica Delfina Vásquez Cruz facts for kids

Angélica Delfina Vásquez Cruz, often called the Ceramista del Preciosismo (which means "Potter of Preciousness"), was born on September 20, 1958. She is a talented potter from Oaxaca, Mexico, known for her beautiful and unique clay artwork.

Angélica Vásquez Cruz: A Master Potter

Angélica Delfina Vásquez Cruz was born in Santa María Atzompa, a town in Mexico. Her parents, Delfina Cruz Díaz and Ernesto Vásquez Reyes, were also artists. They taught Angélica how to make many things from clay. She learned to create toys, small jars, and cooking pots.

Becoming a Unique Artist

In 1978, Angélica started making her own special art. She was inspired by the stories, traditions, and culture of her home state, Oaxaca. Her pottery often features angels and local animals. Each piece she makes is unique and crafted by hand.

Family Tradition in Pottery

Angélica's father taught her the art of pottery. He learned it from his own father. This artistic skill has been passed down through her family for generations. Angélica has also taught her daughter and granddaughter. This means the family's pottery tradition continues to thrive.

Working with Local Materials

Angélica uses materials found right in her local area. She builds her pottery in traditional ways. After shaping the clay, she fires the pieces in a wood-burning oven. This process gives her artwork a special look and feel.

Recognitions and Awards

Angélica Vásquez Cruz is known as a master of folk art in Oaxaca. Her work has been shown in many places around the world.

Major Exhibitions

Her art has been displayed at important museums and events. Some of these include:

• The Mexican Fiesta in Millville, New Jersey (2004)
• The Popular Art Museum of Oaxaca in San Bartolo Coyotepec (2003)
• The National Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C. (1999)
• The Eyes Gallery in Philadelphia (1998)
• The Chicago Museum's "Celebrating Life" exhibition (1993)
• Annual Day of the Dead exhibitions in Oaxaca de Juárez
• The International Ceramics Festival in Wales (2008)
• The Museum of the Cats in California (2008)

National Prize for Arts

In 2008, Angélica received a very important award. She won the National Prize for Arts and Sciences. This award was in the "Popular Arts and Traditions" category. The President of Mexico at that time, Felipe Calderón, presented the award to her. This prize recognized her amazing talent and her contributions to Mexican folk art.

See also

In Spanish: Angélica Delfina Vásquez Cruz para niños