Mariano Sánchez Del Pino

Life-size devotion

• Mariano is inspired by the works of Sevillian masters of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries
• His sculptures are the symbol of his devotion
• He is specialises in wood carving and gold engraving

It is nearly impossible to keep the city of Seville separate from Semana Santa, the Holy Week of the Roman Catholic Church where devotion meets tradition, deeply rooted in the soul of its inhabitants and consequently into the craftsmanship community. Mariano Sánchez del Pino prides himself in stating that since he was a child it was clear to him he would become an imaginero, a sculptor of religious themes. Trained in the local school of arts and crafts, Mariano has always been attracted to art and especially to polychrome wood sculpture, a craft developed in Seville over centuries. His first commission dates back to when he was 17 years old. Since the early 2000s he has been working solo in his studio, specialising in wood sculpting, carving and gold engraving.

Interview

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?

My craft follows the baroque tradition that is the artistic DNA of our churches and of the works commissioned by all the different brotherhoods. It does happen that I add some modern details, without going too far from the classic style.

Does your craft have an immediate impact on the public?

Yes it does. Because my work is commissioned, I receive direct feedback. A memorable and touching moment for me was when the sculpture of the Lord of Divine Mercy was taken to the San Jerónimo neighbourhood for its blessing and was met with immense affection.

Is your craft strenuous?

There are indeed many hours of physical and mental work involved, but the outcome is priceless. This is a craft that fills you with pride when you see observers admiring and praying to your sculptures. I am truly honoured to carry on the tradition and to be keeping it alive.

Would you call yourself a perfectionist?

I never cease to study and practise, and when a work is finished I always feel that there could have been room for improvement! But as there is no way back, it is also then that I realise I have done my best.

Mariano Sánchez Del Pino is an expert artisan he began his career in 2006

Works

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

©Mariano Sanchez Del Pino

Where