If you have stopped by the San Diego Zoo over the summer, chances are that you’ve seen the artistic pieces and jewelry of Rosendo Carillo de la Rosa on display in our exit gift shop, Zoo Store. Rosendo is a Wixarika Indian, more commonly known as the Huichol, and visits us every year from Jalisco, Mexico. He has visited the Zoo annually for the last several years, and every year he brings beautifully handcrafted pieces to share with our guests.

The beadwork art Rosendo meticulously crafts has been passed on through generations and tells the stories of his tribe. These stories are translated through the use of symbols and colors with cultural significance.

It is important to Rosendo and the Huichol people that they preserve their culture by sharing their art. Rosendo is constantly on the road with his family, traveling to museums and cities throughout Mexico as well as the United States. As a teacher in the Huichol tradition, he passes on the artistic techniques and symbolism to the next generation.

Over the years, many of our visitors have had the opportunity to purchase a handcrafted piece that represents the culture, pride, and stories of the Huichol people. There is a wide selection of Huichol art in the San Diego Zoo’s Zoo Store, so stop by and see his work. If you see something you like–get it! His items move fast because they truly are one-of-a-kind!

Leticia Quintero is a office assistant for the San Diego Zoo.

Note: Rosendo will be at the San Diego Zoo through September 6 and returns in December during the new Jungle Bells event at the Zoo.

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