Colorful Purple Floral Mexican Day of the Dead Skull Candle, "Colorful Purple Floral Skull'"

"I learned the art of candles from my parents — it is a generational craft. The city of Salamanca, Guanajuato is characterized by wax sculpture, so I was always in contact with candles. However, I always had the desire to do something different, combining the artistic with the traditional. Crafting candles lets me express and depict feelings and happiness, and I love what I do.

"After stumbling, ruining a few candles and making mistakes, I have found a form of expression. I love to see people's reaction when they admire a piece, to share our traditions and the feelings that it can elicit. The only challenge is for our craftsmanship to be more valued and recognized.

"Our materials are fundamental to our work. "I acquire them from Mexican suppliers — paraffin, stearin, cotton wicks, and acrylic paint. For my part, my creations involve many colors, making combinations and generating sample tones.

"It's been tough to work on my own. But I realize that the achievements are more satisfying and it can be fun learning from my own mistakes. They lead us to grow.

"I have many plans to grow as a businesswoman and asan artist, to take my work to other areas and to be recognized so that whoever buys our work, takes a piece of our Mexico with them."