Catalina Delgado Trunk
“Quetzalcoatl y las Hormigas Maestras” (2004)
Papel Picado (Cut Paper)
Gift of the Artist
Capitol Art Collection
Capitol Art Foundation
Artist Biography: Catalina Delgado Trunk
Catalina Delgado Trunk is a Mexican-born artist internationally recognized for her mastery of papel picado, the intricate art of cut paper. Her work draws deeply from Mesoamerican mythology, Catholic iconography, and folk traditions, blending them into contemporary visual narratives. Known for both technical finesse and symbolic depth, Delgado Trunk transforms delicate paper into powerful explorations of identity, myth, and spirituality.
In works like Quetzalcoatl y las Hormigas Maestras, she reimagines ancient stories—here invoking Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent deity, alongside the “teacher ants,” likely referencing indigenous origin stories where ants are bearers of wisdom and seeds. Her pieces reflect a unique synthesis of tradition and innovation, and are often used as cultural commentary or celebration of indigenous knowledge systems.
Her art is featured in numerous museums and private collections across the U.S. and Mexico. Delgado Trunk has played a key role in elevating papel picado from festive craft to fine art.
