Collecting, as one author put it, can
sometimes be described as "an
unruly passion," and collectors of Mexican crafts and folk art have a
mind boggling array of different forms from which to choose. Some
collect examples of whatever pleases their eye, whether it is metal,
basketry, lacquer or textiles. Others narrow their interest to pottery
which is considered to be Mexico's most traditional art form. Ceramics
of all kinds are an integral part of the country's varied world of folk
art, and the range is seemingly limitless. Potters abound as does,
often, a lack of distinction. However, over the years, some
Mexican
potters have made resounding creative leaps to become ceramists
extraordinare.
Herón Martinez Mendoza-1982
Courtesy: ©Charles Snyder
Heron Martinez Mendoza of Acatlan de Osorio is a fine example of this. His work has become greatly admired and is sought after by many private collectors, as well as museums of folk art. Particularly intriguing about this artist is the fact that although born to the craft, Martinez initially fought his "calling," but when forced to accept it, he went on to become one of Mexico's truly exceptional artisans in clay.
Serious collectors like to know the "provenance" of the items they are collecting, and with respect to Martinez' work, they are fortunate. Although many of the best Mexican craftsmen have died leaving behind little information on their backgrounds and inspirations, Martinez' early life and work have been researched by Carlos Espejel, former Director of the Museo Nacional de Artes e Industrias Populares in Mexico City, and folk art specialists and writers Lenore Mulryan and Louanna Lackey. Since there is a comparative "wealth" of material relating to Martinez's background and the factors which influenced his creativity, collectors can explore the literature in the attached bibliography--it is definitely worth the effort as a fascinating story is to be found.