Tonas and Nahuales

About the Workshop

Join us for a special hands-on workshop inspired by Resistance: Cultural and Political Narratives in Mexican Art.

Tonas and nahuales come from Zapotec culture in Oaxaca, Mexico. They are spiritual beings, often represented as animals, believed to guide and protect individuals throughout their lives. In Zapotec tradition, a person is connected to a spirit companion at birth. The tona guides a person during life, while the nahual is believed to unite with the spirit after death, offering eternal protection. These powerful figures are expressed through the vibrant woodcarving traditions of San Martín Tilcajete and the Central Valleys of Oaxaca.

This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from Ricardo Ángeles of the renowned Ángeles family workshop in Oaxaca. Traveling to Massachusetts from Mexico, Ricardo continues his family’s celebrated carving tradition, led by master artists Jacobo and María Ángeles, whose work is featured in the exhibition.

During this guided workshop, participants will paint and decorate their own small wooden nahualito. Each participant will receive a complete kit that includes:

- A pre-carved wooden nahualito with a base coat
- A strip of primary-color acrylic paints (and instruction on how to mix additional colors)
- Brushes and essential decorating tools

Ricardo will demonstrate traditional techniques such as fine-line brushing and pointillism, and introduce the symbolic patterns commonly used in Zapotec designs. Participants will learn not only how to apply these techniques, but also the meaning behind the symbols and their cultural significance.

You will leave with your own hand-painted sculpture and a deeper understanding of this living artistic tradition.

No prior experience necessary. All materials provided.