Alebrije Makers: Form, Myth & Color

Viva la Vida! 

Step into the vibrant folk art tradition of Oaxaca, Mexico, in this hands-on decorative painting workshop. Drawing from techniques observed directly in Oaxaca, this course guides participants through the intricate process of transforming pre-carved wooden alebrije figures into vivid, detailed works of art. Students will learn base-coating, micro-patterning, dotting methods, and traditional color mixing to create a fully realized sculptural piece to take home. 

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to: 

• Master Decorative Painting Techniques: Learn precision brushwork, fine-line detailing, and traditional Oaxacan dotting patterns. 
• Apply Color Theory & Layering: Practice mixing high-contrast palettes and applying smooth, durable acrylic base coats to wooden surfaces. 
• Understand Symbolic Patterning: Explore traditional motif designs and learn how geometric repetition builds storytelling across 3D forms. 
• Complete a Finished Sculpture: Finish and seal a complete, hand-painted wooden alebrije ready for display.

All supplies provided.

About the instructor

Jorge Avelino Fernandez is a Miami-based Cuban American multidisciplinary artist, designer, and public school art educator holding a BFA in Fashion Design from MIU. His practice spans painting, textiles, mixed media, and sculpture, informed by garment construction and collaborative performance costuming. Recipient of the 2026 Oolite Arts Teacher Travel Award, he studied traditional craft traditions in Oaxaca, Mexico, with Las Mujeres del Barro Rojo, integrating cultural heritage and intergenerational knowledge into both his artistic practice and classroom curriculum.