Alejandro Chavez "In every one of my creations I hope you will be able to recognize my great love for this art form." Alejandro Chávez was born on January 30, 1956. He specializes in the creations of retablos, a kind of reverent diorama-altar typical of the Ayacucho region of Peru. He learned this technique as a boy in school, when he was 17 years old and living in Ayacucho, where his parents moved when he was just 2 years old. When Chávez returned to his hometown, he began working in the studio of Angel Castro, a master artisan. Here he refined his techniques in the creation of retablos, eagerly learning the art from his teacher. Later, Chávez formed his own workshop after the death of his teacher, continuing to give shape to this art form. The customs and traditions of the Andean people emerge in every piece. "In every one of my creations I hope you will be able to recognize my great love for this art form. You will also fine the contributions of my wife as well, for she molds the characters. I am currently teaching my nieces and nephews as well. "I sincerely hope that you enjoy your retablo, which brings together the culture and traditions of the Andes."

	Customer Reviews
		I purchased a painted wood mirror, "Jesus in Ayacucho," because I liked the colors and the nativity scene. I was not disappointed! The life in this work is apparent throughout. Much color and detail, the figures placed around the frame are full of character. I highly recommend this artist's work for its craftsmanship and quality. - Lisa K, Plano/Texas/USA THE WORKMANSHIP AND ARTISTRY OF THESE PIECES IS EXQUISITE. SUCH ATTENTION TO DETAIL SHOWS A TRUE LOVE OF THE ARTIST FOR HIS SUBJECT. I LOVE NOVICA AND THE CHANCE IT GIVES ME TO SUPPORT THE ARTS AND CRAFTS OF OTHER COUNTRIES. P. L. - P L, USA We received the "Huts" plaster ornaments today, and we are so moved by their beauty and craftsmanship. We will be proud to display them in our home and share them with friends who have visited and love Peru. Thank you, Senor Chavez, for sharing your talent with us, and thank you, Novica, for making it possible! - S. A., Missouri, U.S.A. I just received the mirror retable made by Alexandro. All I can say is "beautiful". The workmanship is magnificent. I have already hung it on the wall in my front hallway so all can see it when they come in. Thank you!!! - Diane B, Georgetown, Texas USA I am delighted by the craftsmanship and fine attention to detail in the picture frame I purchased - 'Tuna Harvest'. It depicts a lively scene of life in the Andes, full of colour and spirit. It brightens my home and lifts my heart each time I look at it. Thank you for making something so beautiful and evocative of your wonderful country. - V C P, London This is the second retablo purchased from this artist. The work is excellent. Shipping is fast. The item is extremely well-packed. A pleasure to do business with this person and Novica. Un producto excellente. Muchisimas Gracias. - Barbara R, Norman OK USA We received the Mirror:'Chapel of Bethlehem', a couple of days ago. It is to be a gift for Christmas. Tears of joy welled up in my eyes as I saw the colorful beauty of Alejandro's creation for the first time. I have since repacked it, ready to take to the recipients of this awesome piece of artwork. Thanks to Novica for allowing Alejandro's art to reach the world. J. Knoke - J.L. K, Spring Valley, Ca. I am just thrilled with Alejandro's work. It's beautiful. And the packaging from Novica was fabulous. I look forward to more! - LINDA Q, California USA I purchased the painted wood retablo of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. It is spectacular! Beautifully detailed and colorful. A wonderful addition to my home. I plan to purchase 2 more as Christmas gifts. Thank you. - Anna K, USA I love the retablo of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. It is very beautiful, and there have been lots of compliments from people who have seen it. It also helps me feel more connected to my mother's homeland. Thank you! - Elisabeth G, South Dakota, USA Just wanted to leave a feedback on how pleased I was with Mr. Chavez's "Mask Shop" retablo I received today in the mail from the Peru office. The packing was impeccably done and the post card, artist info sheet, title card was a much appreciated bonus and a special touch. The retablo on the other hand just blew me away. The photo's did not do it justice. Mr. Chavez's work is beautiful. I've seen a lot of ratablos over the years and he's right up there with my favorites. Thanks to all involved in the process of making and selling this item. Finaly, to Mr. Chavez, keep the creative juices flowing my dear friend and I hope you and you loved ones continue to prosper in the love and joy of the art making process. - Kevin P., Phoenix, Arizona, USA Sr. Chavez - muchisima gracias por el retablo / espejo que se llama "Little Circus". Ya me recibí esta semana y es una cosita perfecta para mi hogar. Mis saludos a "Team Peru" tambien. Que todo Uds tienen un buen Navidad! Compraré más obras! - Terry Klumpp, Houston, TX USA Beautiful work. I will be ordering others to expand my collection. God bless. - Ellen Schneider, Chicago IL USA Thank you, Alejandro, for your talent. Your retablo (box of masks) is a constant source of joy for us and all who enter our home. I cannot look at it without smiling! We often pull it off the shelf to admire it's beauty and playfulness. Once again, we thank you! - amber christoff, pennsylvania, usa I ordered the mask collection retablo, and it is so sweet! What attention and artistry went into all the tiny, perfect details! This is something i am proud to display. - Kirsten Mitchell, Asheville, NC, USA