The Traces of Etching

Oaxaca is famous for printmaking, one of the oldest forms of image reproduction. Gráfica Zanate, an etching studio that works exclusively with professional artists, is among the city's most prestigious. In this private art tour, Gráfica Zanate's expert team will guide you through the process, techniques, and history of etching and printmaking, showing how each engraved line serves as a lasting imprint of its maker. At the workshop, located in a beautiful, quieter part of Oaxaca, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how professional etched prints are made. You’ll learn about the history of graphic arts and see the tools and materials used by an artist currently working on-site. This is not a walk-in studio—access is arranged by invitation, making the experience more personal and focused. Your hosts will share selections from the workshop's extensive collection—built over 20 years of collaboration with more than 70 artists—featuring the finest examples of printmaking in the region.

Gráfica Zanate’s owner/founder and team offer a rare experience centered on the art of printmaking in an inspiring and beautiful workshop. You’ll discover its history, techniques, and creative process directly from the artists who have been dedicated to this medium for years. You’ll gain a close-up look at a world that’s rarely seen: the world of graphic art. During this exclusive visit, you’ll have the opportunity to: - Learn about the origins and processes of artistic printmaking - Explore a collection of works created in the workshop over nearly 20 years - See a live demonstration of parts of the etching and printing process What’s more, your hosts are longtime residents of Oaxaca and will be able to discuss their work in the broader context of Oaxacan and Mexican artistic traditions. Gráfica Zanate is not typically open to the public—this private printmaking experience is a rare and immersive opportunity to get to know this space and its makers.

Daniel Flores is a Mexican artist and the director of the Producción Gráfica Zanate printmaking workshop. He specializes in graphic arts and printmaking and has participated in numerous group exhibitions throughout Mexico and internationally. He has also received several grants for projects focused on graphic and plastic arts production within various communities across the state of Oaxaca. Daniel has been working professionally in the Mexican art world since 2002. He founded Gráfica Zanate in 2007, and the studio continues to produce annual printmaking portfolios in collaboration with artists from Oaxaca, Puebla, Mexico City, and abroad. Alongside Daniel, the "maestro" of Gráfica Zanate, you’ll meet the studio’s team of experienced local artists: Viridiana Carmona, Marco Patiño, and Marco Antonio Santos.

An open heart and open ears.