Hermes Arroyo: San Miguel de Allende paper mache artist

Published June 4, 2022

By Carola Rico

The artisanry sector was hard hit by the pandemic. Before Covid, it was already struggling with promoting its products, but with the pandemic the situation became critical, as Mexican artisans were already facing the challenge of modernizing their sales methods. The alternatives they have undertaken to promote their work is an important step, since that income is often the only resource for them and many families. This applies especially to places where tourism is an important part of the economy, such as in San Miguel de Allende.

Popular art is considered an expression of the traditions and customs of our native peoples. These crafts are a living heritage; they are passed on from generation to generation, and their production relies on local resources. These products also carry a heavy symbolic load; conservation of this invaluable art is important. The pandemic jeopardized the situation of many who dedicate themselves to their art; they were affected by the drop in sales, fewer tourists, and the cancellation of popular art exhibitions. The pandemic affected all artisans of Mexico.

This week we spoke with Hermes Arroyo Guerrero, a SMA-based artisan famous worldwide for his mojigangas—the giant paper mache figures we see on our streets. He also makes masks and religious figures for traditional and religious events in the Catholic Church.

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