Pablo and Lucy Mendez

Pablo and Lucy Mendez traditional handcrafted Mexican alebrije figures

Latest Update

"We are a young married couple who inherited the knowledge of carving and painting copal wood alebrijes. We have gradually perfected our technique, which we have passed down to our children.

"We have been working for some years with this incredible technique that we learned. In our community in Oaxaca, copal carving is a tradition for families.

"We have several goals, one of which is to teach and share this beautiful art in our workshop. And it's how we learn more.

"You have allowed us to export our alebrijes to any part of the world, permitting us to concentrate on the quality and inspiration we give each piece. This has led us to hire family members for wood carving.

"We also have copal tree plantations that have allowed us to preserve this beautiful tree that has given us so much, and that was facing the possibility of extinction."

Original Artisan Story

"We are best friends as well as husband and wife. Together, we carve Oaxaca's traditional alebrijes, fanciful and fantastical creatures and images crafted from found wood and painted by hand in bright colors. We project creativity, innovation and quality through our work. We believe it's important to be kind, honest and responsible when working, and we seek to improve our efforts day by day.

"Crafts are a pillar for the economy of many families in our community. These workshops are made up of grandparents, parents and their children. In our case, this craft has been handed down from generation to generation. Our parents and uncles taught us and we are now teaching our children so that this art doesn't die out.

"Striking out on our own has been a bit difficult because we've just started from the ground up. Our desire to get ahead has motivated us to improve our alebrijes and we feel that competition is good.

"To learn this craft, you need to be very dedicated and patient. Our greatest challenge is innovating to create new designs. Our inspiration comes from everything that surrounds us, like nature and those moments in life that can express a feeling.

"We use natural branches of copal wood but sometimes work in willow, cedar and zompantle. I shape the creatures and images. We treat the wood and, when a piece contains imperfections, we make a sawdust paste to fill in the gaps. I do the carving, treat the wood and polish it. Lucy creates the designs and paints the motifs.

"What we enjoy the most is how real and mythical animal shapes can emerge from a simple branch. They can be so colorful and original that they appear to have had a life on another planet. It's wonderful to see so many people appreciating a finished piece and to observe joy and surprise on their faces. This is very satisfying for us.

"We'd like for our workshop to grow little by little and be able to offer jobs to other families in our community. We want our work to be seen in other countries so that everyone can be aware of the art in our town."

Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace Guadalajara, Mexico

Latest Update

"We are a young married couple who inherited the knowledge of carving and painting copal wood alebrijes. We have gradually perfected our technique, which we have passed down to our children.

"We have been working for some years with this incredible technique that we learned. In our community in Oaxaca, copal carving is a tradition for families.

"We have several goals, one of which is to teach and share this beautiful art in our workshop. And it's how we learn more.

"You have allowed us to export our alebrijes to any part of the world, permitting us to concentrate on the quality and inspiration we give each piece. This has led us to hire family members for wood carving.

"We also have copal tree plantations that have allowed us to preserve this beautiful tree that has given us so much, and that was facing the possibility of extinction."

Original Artisan Story

"We are best friends as well as husband and wife. Together, we carve Oaxaca's traditional alebrijes, fanciful and fantastical creatures and images crafted from found wood and painted by hand in bright colors. We project creativity, innovation and quality through our work. We believe it's important to be kind, honest and responsible when working, and we seek to improve our efforts day by day.

"Crafts are a pillar for the economy of many families in our community. These workshops are made up of grandparents, parents and their children. In our case, this craft has been handed down from generation to generation. Our parents and uncles taught us and we are now teaching our children so that this art doesn't die out.

"Striking out on our own has been a bit difficult because we've just started from the ground up. Our desire to get ahead has motivated us to improve our alebrijes and we feel that competition is good.

"To learn this craft, you need to be very dedicated and patient. Our greatest challenge is innovating to create new designs. Our inspiration comes from everything that surrounds us, like nature and those moments in life that can express a feeling.

"We use natural branches of copal wood but sometimes work in willow, cedar and zompantle. I shape the creatures and images. We treat the wood and, when a piece contains imperfections, we make a sawdust paste to fill in the gaps. I do the carving, treat the wood and polish it. Lucy creates the designs and paints the motifs.

"What we enjoy the most is how real and mythical animal shapes can emerge from a simple branch. They can be so colorful and original that they appear to have had a life on another planet. It's wonderful to see so many people appreciating a finished piece and to observe joy and surprise on their faces. This is very satisfying for us.

"We'd like for our workshop to grow little by little and be able to offer jobs to other families in our community. We want our work to be seen in other countries so that everyone can be aware of the art in our town."

Mexico Artisan Empowerment Hub

Explore Mexico. You'll discover the rich artistic heritage drawn from the Maya, Olmec, Toltec, Zapotec, and Aztec civilizations, as well as the distinctive living folk art traditions of modern Mexico. From Taxco Silver Jewelry to intricate Huichol beadwork, and from handpainted Talavera-style pottery to handblown glassware and fantastical alebrijes, you will fall under the spell of magical Mexico.

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Maker BadgeCaring for Children

Lucy financially supports their two children.

Maker BadgeEnabling Education

Lucy's income allows her to provide a necessary basic education to their children in their home.

Maker BadgeProfound Impact

Pablo's profits from the alebrij sculptures he creates for NOVICA allow him to create and financially support a healthy life for his wife and two children.

Maker BadgeAward Winning

Pablo won 2nd Place in the Carved Wood Contest in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.

Maker BadgeEmpowering Women

The Women's Empowerment badge is awarded to female artisans or artisan groups that are led by women.

Maker BadgeJob Creator

This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.

Maker BadgeMoving On Up

This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.

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Alternate image for Butterfly-Themed Hand-Painted Copal Wood Alebrije Sculpture Magical Butterfly

$59.99

Item Detail

Butterfly-Themed Hand-Painted Copal Wood Alebrije Sculpture 'Magical Butterfly'

$59.99

Alternate image for Wood Deer Alebrije From San Martin Tilcajete Oaxaca Running Grace

$69.99

Item Detail

Wood Deer Alebrije From San Martin Tilcajete Oaxaca 'Running Grace'

$69.99

Alternate image for Handcrafted Copal Wood Cricket Alebrije from Mexico Chirping Cricket

$54.99

Item Detail

Handcrafted Copal Wood Cricket Alebrije from Mexico 'Chirping Cricket'

$54.99

Alternate image for Handcrafted Blue Copal Wood Dragonfly Sculpture from Mexico Sweet Freedom in Blue

$49.99

Item Detail

Handcrafted Blue Copal Wood Dragonfly Sculpture from Mexico 'Sweet Freedom in Blue'

$49.99

(4)

Comments

Lisa Bought this for my daughter. She absolutely loves it. The packaging was well thought out to prevent damage to the different pieces.

3 more comments

Alternate image for Handcrafted Grey Deer Alebrije Sculpture Dainty Deer in Grey

$74.99

Item Detail

Handcrafted Grey Deer Alebrije Sculpture 'Dainty Deer in Grey'

$74.99

(1)

Comments

M Molly This was supposed to be for Christmas decorations with my other deer. But it is on display all year instead.

Alternate image for Hand Painted cactus and Bird Alebrije Sculpture Hummingbirds Delight

$119.99

Item Detail

Hand Painted cactus and Bird Alebrije Sculpture 'Hummingbird's Delight'

$119.99

Alternate image for Wood Alebrije Cricket Sculpture in Green from Mexico Green Good Luck Cricket

$49.99

Item Detail

Wood Alebrije Cricket Sculpture in Green from Mexico 'Green Good Luck Cricket'

$49.99

(6)

Comments

Catherine So well crafted and very cute. Great addition to my cricket collection. The painting is excellent and very detailed .

5 more comments

Alternate image for Colorful Copal Wood Alebrije Coyote Figurine from Mexico Mystical Coyote

$134.99

Item Detail

Colorful Copal Wood Alebrije Coyote Figurine from Mexico 'Mystical Coyote'

$134.99

(4)

Comments

Elizabeth This colorful coyote is a beautiful piece to the eye. It is so smooth and perfect and will hold a special place in my home.

3 more comments

Alternate image for Hand-Painted Wood Alebrije Butterfly Sculpture from Mexico Holy Butterfly

$54.99

Item Detail

Hand-Painted Wood Alebrije Butterfly Sculpture from Mexico 'Holy Butterfly'

$54.99

(3)

Comments

Gregory This was a gift for a family member that adores butterflies, and she was thrilled. Beautiful coloring, easy to assemble, and stunning to look at.Thank you for making such wonderful art pieces!

2 more comments

Alternate image for Handmade Green Parrot Alebrije Sculpture from Mexico Perky Green Parrot

$289.99

Item Detail

Handmade Green Parrot Alebrije Sculpture from Mexico 'Perky Green Parrot'

$289.99

43 Reviews for

December 19, 2023

C Catherine

So well crafted and very cute. Great addition to my cricket collection. The painting is excellent and very detailed .

Reviewed item

November 12, 2023

S Sue

Recommend!

Reviewed item

November 5, 2023

D Debra

I have several of these bookmarks on hand to give as gifts along with books for the young people in my life. Beautiful little pieces of art, they are sturdy, and also bright enough not to be misplaced. A couple also reside in my art room, peeking brightly out of a glass jar. Highly recommend!

Reviewed item

September 3, 2023

R Robin

Love this and it works well as a bookmark. Great item.

Reviewed item

May 30, 2023

E Elizabeth

This colorful coyote is a beautiful piece to the eye. It is so smooth and perfect and will hold a special place in my home.

Reviewed item

May 29, 2023

B Beau

Easily the one that attracts immediate attention.

Reviewed item

April 24, 2023

L Lisa

Bought this for my daughter. She absolutely loves it. The packaging was well thought out to prevent damage to the different pieces.

Reviewed item

January 2, 2023

S Susan

Very well-made with beautiful colors.

Reviewed item

August 15, 2022

M Molly

Well crafted, suoer cute!

Reviewed item

August 15, 2022

M Molly

This was supposed to be for Christmas decorations with my other deer. But it is on display all year instead.

Reviewed item

August 7, 2022

A Ana

This is a beautifully painted wood figurine. The colors are vibrant and I love the capture of the figurine howling. Thank you

Reviewed item

July 11, 2022

G Gregory

This was a gift for a family member that adores butterflies, and she was thrilled. Beautiful coloring, easy to assemble, and stunning to look at.Thank you for making such wonderful art pieces!

Reviewed item

June 4, 2022

C Carol

The frog received is cute, artwork is good and it goes well with my collection

Reviewed item

May 9, 2022

C Cynthia

Love this little guy. The detailing is tremendous. It is in my living room curio cabinet up front and center.

Reviewed item

May 5, 2022

E Ellen

Has a good heavy feel to it; detailed carvings and paint. It is bright and cheerful. Arrived unbelievably well-packaged!! Love it

Reviewed item

March 18, 2022

L Lisa

This was a surprise gift for my mother-in-law. She loves it.

Reviewed item

February 15, 2022

J Jill

He has a collection .. and this is a perfect addition for his birthday.

Reviewed item

January 30, 2022

J Julie

This was absolutely beautiful. I collect these animals and I love this one because I also collect frog figurines. The colors and shape are great! I highly recommend these fun and well crafted animals!

Reviewed item

December 7, 2021

E Eric

Nicely crafted and beautifully painted. Love it.

Reviewed item

August 21, 2021

W William

nicely made but delicate. cleaners broke ours so I am replacing it. Love its whimsical look.

Reviewed item

August 15, 2021

P Pat

This beautiful and expressive sculpture reminds me of my tortoise shell kitty with the same coloring in her coat. I especially love the turned head and upraised tail.

Reviewed item

July 15, 2021

M Michael

By my granddaughter.

Reviewed item

April 6, 2021

A Annie

Absolutely stunning! Exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Reviewed item

March 20, 2021

J Julie

The colors are vibrant and it's extremely well crafted. It made a wonderful gift!

Reviewed item

October 31, 2020

E Elise

Love alk the folj art

Reviewed item

October 22, 2020

S S

The colors and details are perfect!

Reviewed item

October 5, 2020

L Linda

This charming cat is nicely carved and beautifully painted.

Reviewed item

May 15, 2020

J James

Love the color of this piece. Beautifully hand painted.

Reviewed item

March 26, 2020

L Leila

The details of this lil beastie are intricate the colors go with everything. I really get so much joy from this, I thank the artists for their vision.

Reviewed item

February 20, 2020

A Armando

It is a beautiful gift and meaningful art.

Reviewed item

January 26, 2020

S Suzanna

Beautiful craftsmanship. I love it. It was a gift for my daughter and she is thrilled. Everyone on my gift lists may get an alebrije figure this year.

Reviewed item

December 23, 2019

P Peter

This is a stunning addition to my wife's large collection of alebrije sculptures. It is easy to see why the artists have won top prizes for their work.

Reviewed item

December 18, 2019

J Joseph

Thanks, its awesome!

Reviewed item

August 31, 2019

T Toni

Reviewed item

August 28, 2019

P Pamela

The Fiery cat arrived safely. It is just beautiful! Thank you.

Reviewed item

May 21, 2019

L Linda

This is an amusing, well crafted, alebrije. I like it very much.

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April 16, 2019

L Lisa

I purchased this item in memory of my Mom who loved butterflies. The details are stunning. I will definitely shop from this site again.

Reviewed item

March 5, 2019

P Patrick

Nicely carved and finished allowing you to really appreciate the fine detail of the gorgeous painted design and eye catching color pallet. The delicate tail is separated for shipping to avoid breakage, which I appreciated, and simply slips into a pre-carved hole. This is one of the most well executed Alebrijes I have seen, most of which I find too gaudy.

Reviewed item

November 19, 2018

S Sallie

Beautiful work, nice detail, and carving.

Reviewed item

June 2, 2018

J Jose

Thank you! it came packaged nicely, and it is very brightly colored. Looks great in my ever growing collection.

Reviewed item

October 7, 2017

A Andrew

Quite a stunning piece. Brightens up the kitchen table.

Reviewed item

September 28, 2017

B Brenda

I love all my oaxacan scupltures! This one added just the right touch of green to the collection. The pieces are delicate and well made. Everything fit together perfectly and it looks great!

Reviewed item

May 11, 2017

K Kim S.

I am very satisfy with the product, a little bit inconvenience to assemble, please request artist to include picture of the product in the package so customer could assemble without guessing.Thank you very much, packaging is perfect

Reviewed item

August 31, 2019

T Toni

This is a magnificent piece of artwork! I had it on my wishlist for quite a while and I was so happy to see "Mystical Coyote" back in stock after selling out the first time around. The closer you look, the more amazing and beautiful the details. The white around the eyes has beautiful silver speckles while the rest of the body is speckled with gold. There are intricate patterns on the throat, hind legs and tail along with bold accents of colour. This wonderful carving definitely lives up to its namesake. I wish Pablo and Lucy the greatest success and hope they become renown for their Alebrije art, thank you so much!

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Pablo and Lucy Mendez

Pablo and Lucy Mendez

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