Margaritas Mexican Restaurant in Salem Presents Sculpting Demonstration by Folk Artists from Mexico

Margaritas Mexican Restaurant at 1 Keewaydin Drive in Salem will host visiting artists Gerardo Ortega and Gabriela Mena, a husband and wife team of folk artists from Santa Cruz de las Huertas, Mexico on November 11, from 4 to 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Using techniques passed down through five family generations, Gerardo and his wife Gabriela will demonstrate folk art sculpting and painting techniques used to create whimsical ceramic figures made only in their small village. Gerardo comes from a family of artisans famous for their imaginary figures depicting everything from farm animals and pets to traditional decorative and mythical sculptures. The region where he lives is known for producing a variety of ceramic styles, many of which are on display in Margaritas’ restaurants. Gerardo’s work has been exhibited all over the world, including: Mexico, Colombia, Europe, Japan, South Africa and the United States.

The presentation in Salem is one of several scheduled this fall throughout New England, as part of the Margaritas Education Outreach Program. The artists will tour the restaurants to demonstrate their craft to the public, as well as visit several local schools to share the Mexican culture, traditions and art with students and faculty. Margaritas created the program in 1999 to share the talent and stories of artists, carvers and sculptors with students and Margaritas guests. The series provides a glimpse into the colorful culture and traditions of techniques that date back centuries.

To learn more about Margaritas Mexican Restaurant and the Visiting Artists program, visit www.margs.com.