By Maria Campos-Vera on October 17, 2011

Have you ever wished you could learn how a piece of art was made from beginning to end? Or to meet an artist in person to hear the story behind his or her art? Do you collect unique handcrafted pieces of art? If you said yes to any of these questions you should plan a visit to the Pilsen’s NMMA this week. For the sixth consecutive year The National Museum of Mexican Art is providing its visitors with the unique opportunity to meet Mexico’s finest folk artists and witness their art demonstrations live. The participating artists at Folk Art Festival 2011 come from all corners of Mexico and each feature unique techniques, subject matters and mediums. However, they all share the same passion for Mexico’s rich folk art traditions, the entrepreneurial spirit, and the willingness to transfer their skill to the next generation to keep their art traditions alive.

This year’s participating artists are:

• Crispina Navarro – Back Strap Loom Weaving (Ocotlán, Oaxaca)
• Miriam Castañeda – Cartonería (Xoxocotla, Morelos)
• Jacobo Ángeles Ojeda – Wood Carving (San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca)
• Bulmaro Pérez Mendoza – Foot Pedal Loom Weaving (Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca)
• Claudia Martinez Vargas – Mixed Media (Oaxaca City)
• Mondragón Family – Sugar Skulls (Toluca, Estado de México)
• Juan José Soteno – Ceramic Sculptures (Metepec, Estado de México)

The 6th Annual Folk Art Festival 2011 opened its doors Friday October 14h and will be running through Sunday October 23rd.

The National Museum of Mexican Art is located at 1852 W 19th st, Chicago, IL 60608. For more information about this festival or the NMMA visit: www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/

See Slideshow of 6th Annual Folk Art Festival 2011 on Flickr »