Toledo’s work is rooted in themes from the myths of his indigenous Zapotec culture. Often reflecting his deep appreciation for unusual animals and nature, Toledo’s art connects myths of creation and re-creation. Francisco Toledo was a dedicated cultural promoter, social activist, and philanthropist.

In 1998, he created a series of handmade books as a charity project for the Taller Arte Papel Oaxaca. The handmade paper covers feature odd creatures from his native Oaxaca, often fused and mirrored, such as birds, crocodiles, bats, fish, and crabs.