The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, in partnership with the Office of Riverside City Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes, unveiled eight towering Alebrijes and Nahuales sculptures from Oaxaca, Mexico last week.
Created by eight Mexican folk artists, the sculptures depict fantastical hybrid spirit animals inspired by Mexican cultural traditions. The colorful, imaginative works celebrate the craftsmanship of Mexican artisans and reflect a rich cultural heritage shared by many Latino communities, including those in Riverside.
“We are proud to welcome these extraordinary works of art to Riverside, a city that embraces arts and culture,” said Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Clarissa Cervantes. “This exhibition celebrates the rich cultural traditions and creativity of Mexico while bringing our community together. It also provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the beauty of Mexican folk art and recognize the cultural heritage that is such an important part of Riverside’s identity.”
First introduced in France in 2019, the Alebrijes and Nahuales exhibition has since traveled to public spaces across the United States, attracting thousands of visitors.
“Riverside’s commitment to arts and innovation is reflected in opportunities like this that bring creativity, culture and community together,” said Councilmember Luis Hernandez. “These magnificent sculptures not only showcase the incredible talent of Mexican artisans but also inspire imagination, encourage cultural appreciation and create meaningful educational experiences for residents and visitors of all ages.”
Beyond the sculptures themselves, the exhibition will offer opportunities for community engagement through educational tours, cultural exchange programs, sculpture and creative writing workshops, artist talks, conferences, and other arts and cultural activities.
The Alebrijes and Nahuales exhibition sculptures will be on display through early January 2027 at The Cheech, Riverside Art Museum, Riverside City College, Bordwell Park, and the Arlanza Community Center. For more information about the exhibition, visit www.fantasticanimalsfrommexico.com.
