Armandos' father Alejandro Jiménez Hernández and mother Raquel encouraged their sons once their natural skills and inclinations became apparent, although they were not directly immersed in the carving tradition. That was a wise choice indeed, as both brothers have gone on to attain fame and renown, and are often invited to show their work in exhibitions and carving demonstrations throughout the United States.
Armando is married to Antonia Carillo, a gifted artist in her own rite, who often assists him with painting, especially during very busy seasons. Antonias' signature can now often be found adjacent to her husbands' on many of their pieces. Oralia Cardenas, the wife of Moises, is also a talented painter who assists him with his work. In addition to their busy production schedule, which usually occupies them six days a week, Armando also acts as Arrazolas' Municipal Agent and assumes responsibilities for overseeing a wide variety of
community functions. Both brothers and their wives are also busy raising families and so there is never a dull moment in either household.
This ecologically conscious family also takes as much care with planting copal trees as with harvesting them, so that this region adjacent to ancient and sacred Monte Alban can continue to flourish and provide this precious resource.
