Field reporter Joe Zanger visits Santa Fe, New Mexico, artist Frederico Vigil, who is devoted to reviving the art form called "buon fresco," or true fresco.
Figure A--The tradition and history of the rugged terrain of New Mexico are what give Frederico Vigil his inspiration. Fresco dates back to almost 3000 B.C. and was developed by several civilizations, including the Egyptians, Italians, Mayans and Native Americans. The process of Vigil's buon fresco begins with a wall that is rough-plastered with two layers of lime, cement and sand mixtures. The third layer is a smooth surface onto which a rough sketch of the overall design is drawn. Each of these layers must sit for 10 days before applying the next coat.
Figure B--The rough image is transferred to tracing paper, called a "cartoon," which is given small holes. This paper image then serves as a final template, in which the shapes and curves can be traced back onto plaster with an instrument or thumbnail. Now comes the exciting part--the painting. Adding the paint returns the plaster wall to its original state, calcium carbonate, which is better known as limestone. This chemical reaction causes the color to become a part of the wall itself. The sheer brilliance of the color won't happen until the wall is very dry, which could take three to six months after the fresco creation. Despite the sizable challenge, the reward is incalculable.
Guests Frederico Vigil
Artist, Academia de Fresco
1107 Canyon Rd.
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Phone: 505-983-9511
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