The holiday yards of Florencio Morales, "el Hombre de las Banderas"

the long version

Florencio Morales (1949-1992), a Mexican immigrant and Los Angeles artist who fashioned elaborate assemblages in his front yard, was known as "el hombre de las banderas" ("the man of the flags") because he always flew American, Mexican, and California flags over his house. During a period of twelve years until his death he created exhibits for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, St. Valentine's Day, Easter, Cinco de Mayo, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, the anniversary of the Treaty of Teoloyucan (13 August), and Mexican Independence Day. On his street and in his community the spectacular displays aroused extravagant and spirited celebrations. Here is a fascinating book that reveals Morale's influences, motivations, and aesthetics, as well as the interplay between the artist, his creations, and his community. In commemorating holidays of both his new and old homelands, Morales manifested his joy in being both Mexican and American and gave vibrant expression to folklore in an urban setting.