Un Cenzontle para mi abuela.

As a young girl, I would sit in quiet awe, listening to the captivating melodies of my grandmother's cenzontles. Their beautiful songs filled the air, touching my heart and soul with their enchanting notes. Yet, even in my admiration, a pang of sadness would wash over me, for I knew that these magnificent birds were meant to be free, soaring through the skies instead of confined within cages. Their songs carried the essence of wildness and freedom, a reminder that nature's beauty should never be contained.

In Mexico, the cenzontle (also known as the Northern Mockingbird) holds a deep cultural and symbolic significance. It has been revered throughout history for its remarkable vocal abilities and its capacity to mimic a wide array of sounds, including the songs of other birds and even human voices. In some indigenous communities, the cenzontle is seen as a powerful symbol of communication, language, and artistic expression. Its name, derived from the Nahuatl language, translates to “el pájaro de las 400 voces,“ or “the bird of 400 voices.” This represents the diverse voices and languages found in Mexico, celebrating the richness of its linguistic and cultural heritage.

In Mexico the cenzontle has been celebrated in literature, poetry, and music as a source of inspiration and creativity. The cenzontle's ability to imitate various sounds and voices also symbolizes adaptability and resilience, reflecting the cultural and historical tapestry of Mexico. Its presence in Mexican folklore and traditions reminds us of the importance of honoring our natural world, embracing our diverse heritage, and cherishing the freedom and authenticity that lie within us all.

This reduction print has a total of 6 layers, and is a limited variable edition of 8 prints.

The design was sketched and carved by hand, then printed with traditional oil based printmaking ink onto 100% cotton, acid free paper. Each piece will be titled, signed and labeled as a variable edition out of 8.

The first 3 prints (1-3) have a gradient with a deeper blue starting at the top and ending with a light blue towards the bottom. The remaining prints (4-8) have a gradient with a lighter blue towards the top and ending with a deeper blue at the bottom of the print. Please look at the photos to see which variant you prefer.

*This block is printed on white Arches BFK paper, 250gsm.

Each print is produced using a manual printing press, therefore, each print will be unique and the background will vary with the gradient (this is why it’s a variable edition). This is what makes each print unique, or as my mother would say “único.”

Paper Size: 17.5”x14.75

Image Size: 12”x11.75”

Paper: Arches BFK white

*print does not come framed

Shipping: Prints are carefully packaged and shipped within 5-7 business days.