Today we’d like to introduce you to Macario Ramirez.
Macario, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born in San Antonio TX, the second oldest of six children. My parents, Jesus and Marina Ramirez, were from Mexico (Zacatecas and Guanajuato, respectively) and migrated to the US in the early 1900’s for economic reasons.
Our family was greatly influenced by the economic and social conditions in the community and the disparities and inequities that existed. We became seasonal migrant workers and traveled through Texas, Michigan, and Wisconsin during summers when we were not in school. We worked in the fields, on hands and knees and the work was very difficult and degrading, but, at the time, also necessary.
But my parents inspired us to stay in school and get a good education, and we did. I and several of my siblings graduated from college. My early experiences formed my community activism in my adult life. My parents and my education shaped my appreciation for and pride in Latino culture.
My father learned the craft of wire working and jewelry assembly and eventually opened a small Mexican craft shop in the Mexican market in San Antonio. After he passed, I decided to open a Mexican themed folk art and craft shop in Houston where I was living. The focus of my shop is Mexican folk art and crafts – I called it Casa Ramirez FOLKART and Crafts as a way to honor my father’s accomplishments and the influence he had in my life.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I have had goals that I strongly believe in – and that has helped me persevere through the obstacles of starting a small business with limited financing and lack of mainstream support
Please tell us about Casa Ramirez FOLKART Gallery.
I am sole proprietor of Casa Ramirez FOLKART Gallery. And, along with my wife, Chrissie Dickerson Ramirez, have operated the business since the early 1980’s. Casa Ramirez specializes in handcrafts from several regions in Mexico, along with select items from other Latin American countries and work by local artists. We also have a great selection of books, including bilingual books for children.
We are known for our celebrations of Dia de Los Muertos – Day of the Dead, a time to honor ancestors and loved ones, and for highlighting cultural traditions throughout the year. Our focus on culture and traditions sets us apart from others who may only carry crafts and decor.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
The whole process has been a learning experience which I still find stimulating and engaging. So there is really nothing I would do differently.
Pricing:
- Prices range from $2 to over several hundred, depending on the item
- Clothing and textiles range from $8 to $150 plus,
Contact Info:
- Address: 241 W 19th, Houston TX 77008
- Phone: 713.880.2420
- Email: casa.ramirez@att.net
- Yelp: Casa Ramirez
Image Credit:
Bryan Parras, Sergio Santos
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
