Adalberto Álvarez Marines

Alvarez's work is distinct in Mexican cartoneria because of its often non-traditional themes and artistic sense, often classed as art, rather than handcraft.

With the exception of alebrijes and skeletal figures, Alvarez avoids traditional forms in favor of exploring what can be done with the medium, focusing on sculpture, decorative items and furniture.

However, he does not like to spend time in exhibition and promotion, establishing his own Cartoneria Museum at his home in Santa Catarina Ayotzingo, Chalco, State of Mexico Alvarez was born in the rural town of Huandacareo, Michoacan in 1952 to a traditional family, with no artistic background[2][3] One aspect of this traditional upbringing was the use of scary stories such as those relate to "El Coco" (like the monster in the closest) to get children to behave.

[3] He worked for a number of years at a factory that made wooden hangers, using scraps of wire and paper to make his sculptures during down times.

He is completely self-taught, with the exception of some classes he was invited to at the then National School of Arts in Xochimilco, Mexico City by a teacher who stated he needed to refine his technique.

[5] Alvarez teaches at the cultural center of Chalco and has been the main cartoneria instructor at the Fabrica de Arte y Oficios in Tlahuac since 2011.

[1] His first and only major international exhibition of his work was in the United States, although he has sent pieces to Italy, France, Brazil and South Korea.

[3] He has a long-standing relationship with he Museo de Arte Popular, participating regularly with the Monumental Alebrije Parade, and working on major projects such as the "History Train" for Day of the Dead.

[2] With the exception of alebrijes and skeletal figures depicting scenes from Mexican life, he generally avoids making traditional cartoneria items, stating that they do not challenge him.

[2][5] His works have fine details such as the folds of the dress, musculature, realistic and expressive faces and surfaces are completely smooth, and seamless.