Arte Calidad has been revamping the techniques of paper mache since 1994 and is renowned for its production of Judas or Mojigangas. Mexico’s special traditions of paper mache are those that Arte Calidad has built upon and transformed into what today is a very innovative style that combines a traditional method with contemporary building techniques. In México, paper mache is used for the production of many artesanias or arts and crafts, many that make humor out of festivities and every day life. During Easter especially, paper mache is used extensively to create giant puppets called Judas (or Mojigangas), after the apostle that betrayed Jesus. Judas are made from paper mache and sometimes bamboo. They are made to represent whimsical or surreal characters. The tradition of burning Judas is disappearing, but still for many in México the tradition of building and burning a Judas during Holy Week remains. Judas are now used throughout the world for all types of traditional celebrations and festivals to inspire fun and humor. Arte Calidad has been creating giant Judas for a long time; some of them like The Frog, Mariachi, Devil, and Skeleton are Arte Calidad signature pieces. On Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, Mexicans approach death with humor. They show off brightly colored paper mache skeletons and skulls to honor their ancestors. The tradition of using skulls and skeletons to celebrate is very important to Mexicans. Arte Calidad’s specialty is the production of skeletons and skulls. Arte Calidad’s interns and teachers are the featured artists of the largest city-sponsored event in Los Angeles, Festival de la Gente for Día de los Muertos. Arte Calidad decorates the Sixth Street Bridge, venue of Festival de la Gente, with nine diesel trucks full of puppets. During Christmas Mexican children play with piñatas decorated with stars, fish, flowers, small boots, etc full of candies, fruits, nuts, and toys. Arte Calidad’s beginnings were in the production of traditional piñatas which are made with paper mache. Today, Arte Calidad continues to produce piñatas during the traditional Posada season, Mexican Fiestas that last from the 16th through the 24th of December. Interestingly, the piñata’s origins can be traced back to pre-Columbian times when the seven cones of the piñata represented something sacred.