The United Mexican States consist of 31 states and a Federal District organized as a federal constitutional republic. Oaxaca is a state towards the bottom of Mexico, with a coast along the pacific and the Sierra Madres inland. The capital city, also named Oaxaca, is at about 5,000 feet and boasts some amazing year-round weather. Although not the wealthiest state in the federation, Oaxaca has a wealth of history, archeological sites, native traditions, and food! The mole is second to none. And one could not hope to find a friendlier or more hospitable people.



The images in this book were taken during a trip to Oaxaca in November and December of 2009, where I spent 7 weeks as a Spanish student at the Instituto Cultural Oaxaca. When not in class, taking a siesta, or sampling mescals, I would prowl the streets in search of interesting photographs. I never had to search far.