News Summary
South Pasadena is hosting an exhibition by artist Roberto Benavidez, who creatively transforms traditional piñata-making inspired by Hieronymus Bosch. His work, on display at Perrotin Gallery in Los Angeles, explores cultural perceptions and personal experiences through handcrafted piñatas that blend humor and depth. Running until October 18, the exhibition aims to elevate piñata artistry in contemporary art discussions while maintaining community accessibility and engagement.
South Pasadena is currently hosting a captivating exhibition featuring the works of local artist Roberto Benavidez, who is known for his innovative approach to the traditional Mexican craft of piñata-making. His first solo exhibition is being held at Perrotin Gallery in Los Angeles and will run until October 18.
The exhibition showcases a series of piñatas that draw inspiration from the intricate and surreal imagery of medieval Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch, particularly referencing his famous triptych, The Garden of Earthly Delights. Benavidez’s creations have been described as ethereal, joyful, and occasionally unsettling, as they explore both humorous and darker themes which relate to the artist’s personal experiences.
Benavidez employs traditional crafting techniques, meticulously handcrafting each piñata, a process that honors the cultural significance of this art form. He previously studied painting and drawing at Pasadena Community College and delved into multiple artistic mediums, including bronze casting and sculpture, before pivoting to piñatas, which he sees as a vibrant means to bring Bosch’s fantastical creatures to life.
His work intentionally critiques cultural perceptions surrounding Mexican artistry, with the goal of elevating the piñata from a childhood novelty to a respected art form. In doing so, he hopes to dispel notions of inferiority often associated with Mexican culture. Benavidez’s sculptures often incorporate subtle references to the seven deadly sins, a concept historically relevant to piñata symbolism.
Fans have affectionately nicknamed some of his works, like Bosch Beast Number 14, which has playfully been likened to “Pikachu.” Another notable feature of Benavidez’s piñatas is that they contain hidden treats within them, reminiscent of the classic piñata tradition, whereby breaking open the piñata reveals delightful treasures.
The artist reinforces a sense of accessibility and community surrounding piñata-making. He has led workshops aimed at demonstrating that anyone can engage in this craft, emphasizing its potential for creativity and personal expression. Jennie King, the director of Perrotin Gallery, highlighted how Benavidez’s creations inspire awe among viewers due to their jewel-like appearance, despite being constructed from readily available materials such as glue and paperboard.
The historical value of piñatas cannot be overlooked; they were utilized by Spanish missionaries as a means of converting Indigenous populations, symbolizing the seven deadly sins in their religious teachings. Benavidez’s sculptures often convey themes of hybridity that reflect his identity as a mixed-race, queer Mexican-American raised in a traditionally Catholic environment.
Ultimately, Benavidez aims to uplift the status of piñata artistry, particularly in the context of the U.S., where there is a prevailing expectation that Mexican crafts should be low-cost and disposable. He expresses hope that growing recognition in the fine art world will enhance commercial viability for traditional piñata makers, known as piñateros, thereby preserving a significant cultural art form while also championing its valid place within contemporary art discussions.
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Additional Resources
- LAist: The Delightful Eerie World of Artist Roberto Benavidez’s Handmade Piñatas
- New York Times: Piñata Maker Roberto Benavidez
- ARTnews: Roberto Benavidez’s Piñatas
- Wikipedia: Piñata
- Google Search: Roberto Benavidez
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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