Sandra Marcela Hernández Cruz: Heartfelt Art from Pátzcuaro to the World
Sandra Marcela Hernández Cruz, born in Morelia, has lived her entire life in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán. With 25 years of experience in artisanal craftsmanship, Sandra has pursued her dreams with unwavering dedication, opening her own store, "El Corazón de Pátzcuaro," where she showcases her beautiful handmade hearts.
A Dream Come True
From the beginning, Sandra found more than just a livelihood in her craft. "I really enjoy it. I see it as my therapy; doing all this relaxes me. I get so focused that I forget everything else. It's my space," she passionately shares. As a housewife, her time in the workshop is a refuge, a moment just for her. Her creations reflect years of effort, knocking on doors, and constant struggle to improve. "Having our store for the past three years has been the realization of a dream; a place to showcase our craft."
Emotional Connection Through Art
Sandra's joy extends beyond creating her pieces; it reaches those who appreciate them. "The simple fact that others like my craft fills me with emotion. That they take a heart and place it in their home, whoever they are, brings me so much joy. I love it when they send me photos of their walls decorated with my hearts."
The Technique Behind the Art
Each heart is a labor of love and dedication, crafted with meticulous technique. She uses pine wood as the primary material, complemented with milagros, acrylic paints, and gold and silver leaf. "For a milagro heart, the wood is carved, sanded, and painted with a base color. Then we apply the final color and start attaching the milagros, finding their place and form within the heart." Depending on the size, each heart can take from a day to a week to complete.
Michoacán Artistry for the World
Thanks to the Women's Magic Hands project, Sandra has the opportunity to bring her beautiful crafts beyond the borders of Michoacán, sharing her passion and tradition with the world. Her hearts are not only a symbol of her talent but also of the rich artisanal culture of her homeland.