Carolina Sandoval & Kengi: Impressive Owl with Mask Woodcarving

Carolina Sandoval and Kengi Santos are a married couple in their twenties. They previously worked at other workshops before starting their own. Their artwork goes beyond just woodcarving. They often combine wood, acrylic, textile, and wire in one piece. This owl shows the variety in their work. Kengi carved this tall owl, mid-turn, head angled to one side, weight settled low and centered through the body, classic alebrije proportions made unmistakably their own by the mask, perfectly fitted over the owl's face. The mask sits in front of the owl's real eyes, dark and watchful behind it, looking out from beneath. In Aztec and Maya belief, the owl served as a significant messenger between the living and the dead, a creature that traversed the night world, and a bird that bore a second face over its own. This connection invites viewers to appreciate the cultural depth and spiritual symbolism behind the piece, fostering respect and curiosity. Below the mask, Carolina's painting shifts into cool blue feathers broken by twin sunburst patches on the wings, with a finely beaded chest panel that catches light differently from every angle. Down the owl's back runs a narrow, woven band, a detail inspired by Carolina's hometown of Santo Tomás Jalieza, a Zapotec community renowned for centuries of backstrap loom weaving, adding cultural significance to the piece. This piece is special, featuring an owl that contrasts its outward appearance with what lies beneath, and carries a part of Carolina's roots. Origin: Oaxaca Dimensions: 12''Tall 6''Long 5''Wide