College of Southern Idaho Spanish professor Raquel Arenz gives an introduction to the Mexican folk art traditions of the retablo and ex-votos. Retablos are devotional, unsophisticated paintings of saints, angels, the Virgin Mary and Jesus. These paintings are done on wood, tin or canvas. Ex-Votos are votive paintings that are sprung as the result of answered prayers. These forms of art are extremely popular and are part of the fabric of Mexican culture. Learn about these beautiful art forms, full of color, deeply rooted in personal faith and experience. You will be invited to make your own retablo as part of the night’s activities!
“Mexican Retablos” by Raquel Arenz
