ALEBRIJES:
Creatures of a Dreamworld
June 13 – September 27, 2026
WHAT ARE ALEBRIJES?
Alebrijes are brightly colored, fantastical creatures from Mexican folk art that often combine features from various animals—real and mythical—into a single, surreal form. Originating in the 1930s with artist Pedro Linares, who dreamt of strange hybrid beings while ill and later recreated them in papier-mâché, alebrijes are known for their vivid colors, intricate patterns, and imaginative designs. While originally not tied to spiritual beliefs, many contemporary interpretations associate alebrijes with symbolic meanings, including representations of the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. For example, a creature might have wings for air, scales for water, claws for earth, and flames or bright colors symbolizing fire. Today, they are celebrated as iconic symbols of Mexican art, appearing in festivals, museums, and parades. We are excited to bring these magical creatures to the Garden and plan to offer a variety of activities and programs to enhance the guest experience. This will be the first time the Alebrijes will be in a Botanical Garden, and their first time visiting the East Coast!
MEET THE ARTISTS
Edgar Camargo Reyes
Edgar Camargo Reyes is an artisan with 23 years of experience working in cartonería (papier-mâché). He graduated from the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes y Literatura in Mexico City. Alebrijes have been an important part of his artistic journey since the beginning, and over time he has developed a deep connection to this craft. Edgar’s work in this exhibit is inspired by animals and plants from the natural world. He is influenced by their forms, movement, and presence, which continue to guide his creative process.
If Edgar were an alebrije, he would be a snail with tentacles, chimpanzee arms, and eagle wings.
Edgar’s sculptures include: Goliath and Mykel
Alejandro Camacho Barrera
Alejandro Camacho Barrera is a toy artisan and alebrije maker from Xochimilco, Mexico City. He began making toys at a young age for personal enjoyment, and later in the 1990s, started creating papier-mâché masks for teaching and small alebrijes for sale. His work seeks to build bridges between people, communities, and shared stories. Alejandro is inspired by the natural environment where he lives, as well as by geometric design. The work of Francisco Toledo and Alexander Calder has also influenced his artistic path.
If Alejandro were an alebrije, he would be a monkey and jaguar with bird wings and a serpent tail. His nahual would be a hummingbird.
Alejandro’s sculptures include: L’aquarium, Patapez, Gigi, Ma’ax, and Braulio
Alberto Moreno Fernández
Alberto Moreno Fernández has been creating alebrijes since 2005. What he enjoys most is that this work allows him to express himself while bringing childhood memories and dreams to life. Nature is one of his main sources of inspiration in every piece he creates. He believes we do not live off art—we live for it, and it has given him a meaningful way to express emotion and creativity. Alberto’s mother has been his greatest influence, as she taught him to value nature and animals.
If Alberto were an alebrije, he would be a mole, and eagle, and a deep-sea fish.
Alberto’s sculptures include: Baron, Bicefalo, El Kokoro, Asmej, and Totolt
Perla Miriam Salgado Zamorano
Miri Salgado is an artisan, alebrije artist, toy maker, and lover of Mexican folk art. She began working with alebrijes in 2000, first creating small-scale pieces and working in cartonería. In 2010 she began producing monumental alebrijes and received first place in the Alebrijes contest and parade at the Museo de Arte Popular in Mexico City. Miri’s work is colorful and expressive, inspired by nature and storytelling. She honors artisans who preserve their cultural identity and keep their traditions alive.
If Miri were an alebrije, she would be a winged dolphin and jaguar with superpowers.
Miri’s alebrijes include: Osita Emilia, Tochtli, Blue, and Juki
Membership Includes Unlimited Visits
Become a member to enjoy programming for Alebrijes and more events at the Garden throughout the year for one low price.