<p style="text-align: center;"><b>October 6, 2007 – January 19, 2008</b></p>
<b> </b>For the first time in more than a decade, this exhibit will present the art of carving <b>Santos </b>(wooden statues) in Philadelphia.  Carving Santos was introduced to America by Spanish colonizers and missionaries in the 16<sup>th</sup> century.  In Puerto Rico, isolated in small towns, lacking access to objects of devotion, and unable to afford imported ceramic statues, people whittled their own religious statues out of native woods and local materials. Self-taught craftsmen became known as <b><i>santeros</i></b> (wood carvers).  By incorporating elements of each region into the creation of images that include particular materials, costumes, beliefs and traditions, accomplished santeros created unique styles and techniques<b>.</b>  By mid-19<sup>th</sup> century the carving of saints had achieved artistic sophistication. The craft is passed from one generation to another, maintaining a continuity that is constantly challenged by the new.  Presently, there are many craftspeople on the island who have achieved significant notoriety for their skills. Today<b> Santos </b>are highly valued art objects as well as objects of devotion. The exhibition will present older examples in parallel to contemporary themes and styles.  In keeping with the significance of Christmas, this exhibition will include images of the popular <b><i>Tres Reyes Magos</i></b><i> </i>(Three Wise Men) as well as nativity scenes.  Two artisans, brought by the Puerto Rico Institute of Culture, will demonstrate and answer questions about the traditions of wood carving at Feria de Artesanías.

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