Congress of Jade Carvers from the Americas
(III Edition)
After much planning and preparation, Jade Maya proudly opened its new store just in time to host one of the most anticipated events in the jade community. From November 7th to 10th, 2024, the 3rd Congress on Jade Carvers took place at Jade Maya’s newly inaugurated store, located at 5th Avenue North, #9, in Antigua Guatemala. This highly anticipated event brought together master artisans from Mexico and Guatemala, uniting them in a shared passion for jade craftsmanship. The congress provided a platform for these talented carvers to showcase their remarkable artistry, exchange knowledge, and celebrate the cultural significance of jade.
This year’s congress embraced a profound and culturally significant theme: The Popol Vuh, the sacred Maya creation myth. The artisans were challenged to interpret and reflect the legends, deities, and symbolism of this ancient text in their jade carvings. The theme served as both an artistic inspiration and a tribute to the deep historical and spiritual connections between jade and Maya heritage.
Day One: Presentation and Press Conference
The congress started with a grand display of the artisans’ exquisite jade creations. Each carver presented their meticulously crafted pieces, demonstrating the unique artistry and skill required to work with this precious stone. A press conference was held, detailing the upcoming events and activities planned for the following days. During this session, Mary Lou Ridinger, founder of Jade Maya, engaged with the artisans in a discussion about their experiences, inspirations, and challenges in jade carving. The discussion heavily focused on how each artisan incorporated elements of the Popol Vuh, from representations of the Hero Twins, Hunahpú and Xbalanqué, to the underworld trials of Xibalbá and the revered Maize God.
Day 2: Exhibition and Competition
On the second day, Jade Maya’s new store transformed into an exclusive gallery featuring all the participants’ works. The congress introduced two competitive categories for the artisans: sculpture and jewelry. Most artisans enthusiastically participated in both categories, aiming to win the grand prize. The theme of the Popol Vuh added an extra layer of depth to the competition, inspiring artisans to push the limits of their creativity. Some pieces depicted intricate scenes of the Hero Twins' journey, while others focused on symbolic motifs.
As part of the congress, Jade Maya organized a special trip to Hacienda Santiago in Zacapa, Guatemala, where participants had the rare opportunity to witness jade in its natural state, deepening their appreciation for the material they so skillfully shape. This visit was particularly meaningful, as the ancient Maya once sourced their jade from similar deposits, and the artisans could connect with the historical and spiritual significance of their craft.
Day 3: Cultural Celebrations and Conferences
Returning to Antigua Guatemala for the third day, the congress featured a series of informative conferences where experts shared insights into jade artistry, history, and preservation. Experts gave special lectures on the Popol Vuh, emphasizing its influence on Maya civilization and artistic expression.
In a celebration of Guatemalan heritage, the entire street outside the store was closed to accommodate folkloric dance performances, musical presentations, and a spectacular fashion show. Traditional Maya-inspired garments were showcased, featuring motifs and designs linked to the Popol Vuh. The lively cultural festivities highlighted how deeply jade carving and Maya mythology remain intertwined, keeping ancestral traditions alive.
Day 4: Reflections and Awards Ceremony
The final day of the congress brought all participating artisans together for a reflective discussion on their experiences throughout the event. This gathering allowed them to share thoughts, learn from one another, and strengthen the community of jade carvers. Many carvers expressed how the Popol Vuh theme had pushed them to explore new artistic depths and reconnect with the spiritual heritage of jade carving.
The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived with the announcement of the winners in both categories:
Sculpture Category:
- Pedro Agustín Molina – Mexico
- Noé Sebastián Sánchez – Mexico
- Niels Arroyo Hernández – Mexico
Jewelry Category:
- Adán Pilicastro Alcázar
- Noé Sebastián Sánchez – Mexico
- Victorino Díaz Hernández
The event concluded on a high note, celebrating the immense talent and dedication of each participant. The 3rd Congress on Jade Carvers was a resounding success, reinforcing Antigua Guatemala’s reputation as a hub for jade artistry and ensuring the legacy of jade carving continues to thrive for future generations. The Popol Vuh theme served as a reminder of the deep cultural and spiritual connections that jade holds within the Maya tradition, inspiring future generations to carry forward this ancient art form with pride and reverence.
This congress marked another milestone in the growing tradition of jade carving gatherings, with many more congresses to come in the future. The overwhelming success of this year’s event has set the stage for future editions, where artisans from across the Americas will continue to meet, collaborate, and innovate within the rich world of jade craftsmanship. As the appreciation for jade artistry expands, so too does the opportunity to explore new themes, techniques, and cultural expressions in upcoming congresses.
