Verónica Marisol Manzo: A Life Dedicated to the Art of Inlaid Maque
Inspiration and Motivation
Since arriving in Uruapan at the age of 18, Verónica found her inspiration at the local artisan market. It was there that she discovered maque, a traditional technique that immediately captivated her. As she wandered through the stalls, admiring the beauty and detail of the pieces, she set herself a dream: one day, she would become an artisan. With determination and passion, she fought for that dream until it became a reality.
Career in Craftsmanship
Today, Verónica has been dedicating herself to inlaid maque for 14 years, a technique that requires precision, patience, and a deep connection with natural materials. For her, being an artisan means much more than a profession; it is a journey of achievements, recognitions, and, above all, personal and family satisfaction. Each piece she creates is not only a work of art but also a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Learning and Mastery
The path to mastering maque was not easy. She learned the essential techniques in a workshop at the Huatapera in Uruapan, under the expert guidance of teacher Rosa Maria Ruiz Romero. It was there that she honed her skills, learning to work with natural earths and linseed oil to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also durable, capable of lasting a lifetime.
Vision and Dreams
One of Verónica's greatest desires is to take her crafts to other parts of the world. She dreams of people from different cultures getting to know and appreciating the complexity and beauty of inlaid maque. She wishes to share the technique, teach its laborious elaboration, and amaze others with the durability and intrinsic art of each piece.
Projection and Culture
Moreover, Verónica longs to explore beyond the borders of Michoacán. She wants to showcase her skills and allow others to discover a piece of her homeland, with its rich traditions and exceptional art. Her dream is that through her crafts, the world will come to know and value the beautiful traditions of Michoacán, elevating them to a place of recognition and admiration.
Verónica not only creates art; she preserves a tradition, tells a story, and builds cultural bridges. Her life is a testament to perseverance, passion, and love for the art of inlaid maque, a technique she carries in her heart and hands, and which she is eager to share with the world.
