Exploring Andean Heritage: Nicario Jiménez Quispe’s Vibrant Retablos of Cultural Reflection

Nicario Jiménez Quispe creates small sculptures from a special dough in his Naples studio. These sculptures are part of his retablos, which resemble Latin American altarpieces. His art reflects his Peruvian heritage, specifically from his village in the Ayacucho region.

Nicario learned this craft from his grandfather and father. In Andean tradition, retablos often include detailed scenes combining Catholic imagery and Indigenous beliefs. As a child, Nicario watched his grandfather create icons for community rituals. These art pieces served a purpose beyond commerce, linking seasons and agricultural cycles.

Now, in the United States, Nicario uses his family techniques but explores new themes. He tells stories about Andean life, violence, and political struggles in Peru. His artwork also touches on American civil rights. One piece, In Years of Struggle, shows confrontations between police and peaceful protesters. Another, La Pishtaco, uses a Quechua legend to reflect on colonialism.

Each retablo tells a story from Nicario’s journey from Ayacucho to the U.S. Some depict scenes from his hometown bar, filled with humor and lively characters. These three-dimensional pieces come alive with vibrant colors and intricate details, inviting viewers to explore the stories within.

Nicario works with a dough-like material made from cooked potatoes and plaster. He shapes this mixture into figures without sketching first. After basic painting, he adds fine details with a brush. His father introduced acrylic paints, which Nicario has expanded upon since moving to Naples.

He protects his retablos with varnish and decorates the containers with traditional patterns. Nicario’s father’s shift to urban life changed their art focus, moving them away from traditional imagery. Nicario faced cultural challenges when he moved to Lima amid violence in Ayacucho. He expressed his feelings about this shift in Life Between Two Worlds, showcasing the contrasts in his life.

Nicario gained attention from academics, leading to exhibitions and a commission from the Smithsonian Institution. Now in his 60s, he continues to share his culture and history through his art. He leads a peaceful life with his family, finding balance in his garden and studio work.

Nicario believes his retablos capture human emotions and everyday life. His art reflects rich traditions and personal experiences, inviting all who encounter it to connect with the stories of his past and the essence of Andean culture.