This incredible nativity scene features all female characters, as Mermaids, including the Divine Daughter of the Mermaids! In Mexican lore, the Mermaid is a syncretic response to the Mexica goddess Chalchuihtlicue, who is the Goddess of rivers, seas and lakes, and European tales of Mermaids. La Tlanchana is a figure from Mexica and Matlazinca legend, who was Queen of the Lakes, possessing the power to transform her legs into a mermaid tale, or a snake - depending on her mood.
In Ocumicho, Mermaids, like the Devils, feature in comical situations and religious allegories, such as The Last Supper. We asked Adelida if she would be interested in creating a Mermaid nativity, and she was delighted! We were so pleased with the results - especially the inclusion of an Axalotl, fish and Octopus to represent the farm animals seen in traditional nativities. Even more comical - this mermaid nativity features all females, which is a nod to the many women who are choosing the solo life and communal living among fellow women.
Mermaid Nativity by Adelida Pascual
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
ADELIDA PASCUAL
Born in Ocumicho, Michoacan on December 3, 1986, Adelida grew up playing with clay, but began producing serious pieces for art markets and competitions when she was 15 years old. As the daughter of well-known Ocumicho sculptor, Tomasa Gonzales, Adelida comes from a long line of artisans, has mastered techniques, and enjoys the patience necessary for completing high quality work. She has won several competitions, and creates small and large scale pieces and dioramas.
I first met Adelida Pascual through her mother, Tomasa Gonzales. I was desperately seeking Christmas Ornaments for my online gallery, and Tomasa had none in stock. She signalled me to follow her down the hill and around the corner, where she introduced me to her daughter. Adelida welcomed me to her home, and we spent about an hour looking through her fantastic collection, which included nativity scenes, angel sculptures and plenty of large-scale, whimsical pieces. We have since commissioned several pieces from Adelida, including the devil, mermaid and viejito dancer nativity scenes.
We look forward to seeing more creations from Tomasa Gonzales and her daughter Adelida, as well as other family members, all of whom are highly creative artists.
