Easel Painter © Marilyn Anderson. Woodcut, 9 1/16″x 11 7/8″
Most Maya traditional artists have, until fairly recently, depicted mainly small sized scenes of traditional culture, work and religious ceremonies. Today, the size of paintings has also increased and some artists use more non-traditional approaches which may include working in very individualistic styles contrasting to the more homogeneous look of canvases done in the past.
It is fair to say that a “flowering” of talented artists has taken place, including a number of women painters. Towns such as Comalapa and Santiago Atitlán have produced many fine artists. Guatemala has also produced remarkable non-Maya schooled painters, including the world renowned Carlos Mérida. But the authentic “village” painter’s work has a special place in the hearts of many.