A Utah Arts & Museums Arts Education teaching artist, Clar Amezcua is known throughout the state for her artistry making pinatas. She recently added a new art form to her repertoire – alebrijes, specifically those from the traditions of Mexico. Alebrijes are mythical animal creatures, also spirit guides and the focus of an annual parade in Mexico City.

Clar can adapt these creatures to much smaller ones for students to create in a classroom.

Clar was born in Mexico City and grew up in Toluca.  She obtained her degree in Accounting and Business Administration, and worked as a sous-chef for ten years before turning to piñata making. 

Clar’s foray into the art of piñatas happened when she moved to Salt Lake City with her husband and two children.  She wanted to show her children that despite the distance they could keep their traditions alive, one of which was Las Piñatas. Mexican Piñatas are a symbol of identity that carry a profound historical and cultural significance .  Clar began by finding a piñata she liked and making it for her child’s birthday.  She developed a passion for how colors and different fun shapes could be used in creating a piñata.  She fell in love with the art form.    

Clar studied and practiced different techniques and designs for almost two years, improving her skill until she could create not only traditional piñatas but also custom made shapes and characters.  

Artes de Mexico en Utah has invited Clar to various arts festivals where she not only displays her art but teaches mini piñata making workshops. Her goal is for the community to learn about beautiful Mexican culture and traditions through piñatas and alebrijes.