Isabel Castillo
Ceramic Sculptor
Izucar de Matamoros, Puebla, Mexico
Isabel Castillo was born in Izucar de Matamoros, Puebla, in central Mexico. The tree of life and other figures she creates are inspired by five generations of artisans in her family. Isabel learned her art form from her mother and grandmother; the latter lived to be 115 years old. The animal and cactus candleholders in their bright and shiny colors are everyone's favorites.
She has traveled to the United States with her daughter, Lourdes Mercado de Camacho, and sons Fernando and Rudolfo, award winning ceramic artists as well as a high school teachers in their local school. Their ceramic sculptures have been featured in national contests. The Castillo family was awarded 1st prize for polychrome ceramic sculpture by FONART, Mexico's national folk art foundation.
This family of artists has been selected based on their artistic achievements and their ability to communicate their unique creative vision passed down from preceding generations. It is hoped that they will spark the imaginations of students and generate enthusiastic workshops involving sculpture and design projects. This will surely add a new component to the visiting artist program. Not only will American students be exposed to Mexican culture but undoubtedly Rudolfo and Fernandos’ own students will learn from his experience in American schools.
Tree of Life
The tree of life is more than a decorative object, it's symbolism and function blend European and Indigenous Mexican culture. Throughout history trees have served as symbols of fertility and rebirth. The candelabras in the shape of trees did not appear in Mexico until after the Spanish conquest. Traditionally the decoration of the trees refer to the story of the Creation, the Nativity or the Resurrection, but imaginative artists constantly invent new subject matter. With endless humor and color, the trees, portray life in a joyful, whimsical way that has universal appeal.
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