Tehuana

Description

This skull is surrounded by nature, almost as if it were emerging from it. It is enveloped by life, emphasizing the “life–death–life” cycle that was so central to the pre-Hispanic worldview. Although its jaws are closed, it is a joyful and gentle skull, crowned by beings that connect us with the earth, the air, the water, and the feminine attributes characteristic of the women of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.

Creation Process

The Mexican Tehuana Skull is the first piece in the series, and its creation took two years. The process began with sculpting the piece in modeling clay, producing at least twenty different versions with varying features and proportions. After this extensive sculpting process, a conceptually refined piece was achieved. It was then brought into the digital world through 3D scanning and subsequently produced as a resin print.

Once printed, various details were refined before creating a silicone mold reinforced with a fiberglass shell. From this, a wax mold was made, leading to the final bronze casting process. After casting, the metal underwent cleaning, polishing, and assembly, during which gemstones were added when applicable, followed by the application of a patina and a protective clear coat. Finally, the sculpture was signed and mounted on a stone base.