A friend of mine once told me of "the most magical place in the world” and I just had to go and check it out for myself!

I instantly fell in love with Oaxaca. How could you not? The climate, the vibrant buildings, the art, the food, and the time-honored traditions passed down from generation to generation, still celebrated and cherished.

I didn't want to leave and when I did, I just had to come back.

Oaxaca, often said to be an artist's haven, unfolds with a vivid blend of color, art, and traditions. My second visit also coincided with the highlight of the year - the Day of the Dead. 

While it might not immediately sound cheerful to an outsider, in Mexico, it stands out as the most beautiful celebration I've ever witnessed.

During these special days, the belief that the departed return becomes a tangible reality. People warmly invite their loved ones back, adorning their path with favorites - foods, flowers, and cherished items from their lives. The entire city transforms and fills with colors.

Everyone dresses in costumes, adorn their homes, and line the streets with flowers, art, and sculptures. The graves also become a canvas of colors, a visual testament to the enduring bond between the living and the departed. 

In this celebration of the dead, everyone joins in the spirited dance and parade through the city, fostering a sense of unity that brings them closer than ever and instills a deeper appreciation for the life they have.

After living there for three years, I now share with you these colorful, folkloric paintings representative of the vibrant Mexican culture. 

This series of paintings explores the concept of bodyscapes through vibrant colors and contrasting textures. Using both acrylic and oil paints, I delve into the intricate landscapes of the human form, each canvas a testament to the beauty and complexity of the human body.

I try to catch the viewers attention by using bold brushstrokes and rich hues. From the interplay of light and shadow to the interlocking shapes and forms, these paintings invite viewers to contemplate the relationship between the physical and the abstract.