olk art is found in every part of the world and is made by artists trained in traditions handed down through their local communities. Most folk art is handmade and is intended to be both useful and decorative. It chronicles the life of the community from which it draws its strengths and to which it contributes. Whereas academically trained artists tend to produce art that is often more international in scope and more individualistic, folk artists are characterized by a persistent loyalty to local artistic and social values. Latin American folk art is an energetic expression of cultural fusion. As a visual manifestation of culture, it reflects society╣s way of dealing with problems and changes that arise in physical, social, or spiritual environments. Folk art can be seen as one of society╣s many coping mechanisms. By contributing to community cohesion, it serves as a buffer against internal and external threats.

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