Stephanie McArdle Publishes 'Jabón: Magic Soaps of Mexico' Photobook Documenting Witchcraft Market Rituals

Designer Stephanie McArdle has released 'Jabón: Magic Soaps of Mexico,' a bilingual photobook exploring ritualistic soaps from Mexico City's witchcraft markets. The publication features 20 esoteric soaps known as 'jabones esotéricos,' collected from traditional markets like Mercado de Sonora. McArdle, head of design at BBH in London, conceived the project while living in Mexico City several years ago and completed it during maternity leave in 2024. Photographer Maisie Cousins contributed hypersaturated still-life images in her maximalist style, incorporating elements like dirt and hair to emphasize the soaps' visceral qualities. Designer and illustrator Tal Brosh created liquid illustrations and typographic templates with nested text blocks and exaggerated drop caps, referencing prayer books. The book presents fictional narratives imagining the buyers and circumstances behind each soap's use. McArdle describes the soaps as 'perfectly imperfect and nostalgic,' noting their packaging contains colorful designs and spell-like instructions. The project examines belief systems and the human desire for control through ritual objects often overlooked in Mexican culture.