Surrounded by flowers, the Virgin of Guadalupe is queen of the heavens. She first appeared in Mexico in 1531, and as proof of her visit, the Virgin caused roses to bloom at the site. Named Patron Saint of the Americas by Pope John Paul II, she is a beloved manifestation of the Catholic faith. Alejandro Chávez recreates the portrait that appeared miraculously on the tilma (cactus fiber cloak) of Saint Juan Diego in 1531. Chávez depicts Mary in a traditional diorama known as a retablo; each piece is modeled and painted by hand.
