A new generation of cantera artisans is revolutionizing Mexico’s traditional stonework industry. In Escolásticas, a small town outside Querétaro where 60% of the population works in cantera sculpting, Hugo Uribe is leading this transformation through his workshop, Canteras Querétaro.
Uribe, a former Stellantis engineer, has successfully merged his technical background with his family’s traditional stoneworking heritage to modernize the centuries-old craft. His workshop uses computer numerical control (CNC) machines and 3D printing technology alongside traditional hand-carving techniques to create sculptures, architectural elements, and decorative pieces.
The integration of technology allows Canteras Querétaro to meet increasing market demands while maintaining artistic quality. According to Uribe, machines handle approximately 40-60% of the initial work, while master craftsmen, including his father, complete the pieces with the detailed finishing that gives each sculpture its artistic character.
The workshop has gained recognition for its innovative approach, winning regional competitions and securing bids for prestigious projects, including a luxury hotel in Mexico City. Uribe’s business model also includes training young artisans through the government’s Jóvenes Construyendo el Futuro program.
Tradition and Modernity in Cantera Sculpting
Escolásticas has been a center for cantera sculpting since the 1950s, with over 300 workshops producing everything from fountains and columns to religious figures and architectural elements. Uribe’s approach represents how traditional Mexican crafts can evolve while preserving their cultural essence.
For visitors interested in Mexican craftsmanship, Canteras Querétaro offers a glimpse into both the traditional and modern aspects of this enduring art form.
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