Ampelio Mariscal
Mexican ornamental iron work artist
Brewster, WA
Ampelio Mariscal learned traditional Hispanic ironwork from his father, Crescendio,
while growing up in Zacatecas, Mexico, Ampelio often helped out in his father’s shop.
Mariscal currently resides in Brewster, Washington, where he owns a shop of his own, making
traditional Hispanic ironwork for people in this community. Ampelio’s ironwork reflects
Spanish-influenced Mercato style pieces that includes gates, decorative fences, and ornate
indoor and outdoor hardware, building materials, and furniture.
As a recipient of a 2002 Apprenticeship grant, Mariscal taught his son, Jonathan, how to
safely use iron working tools and equipment. Jonathan also learned to measure, cut, heat,
weld, and work the metal on an anvil, as well as to finish pieces with paint or patina
techniques. Together, Ampelio and Jonathon demonstrated ironwork and exhibit pieces at the
Okanogan County Fair in September of 2003. Jonathan has observed his father at work since
he was a young child. In addition to his father’s instruction, Jonathan also learned from
visiting his grandfather’s shop in Zacatecas, Mexico. Jonathon hopes to be able to help out
in his father’s shop and someday open his own, continuing the family tradition.