My sister is visiting from Manitoba, Canada and because of her interest in the creative arts we took in a number of art shows held during the month of February.
Pam's son is an international award winning blacksmith, so she took many pictures of the wonderful iron and other metal artwork in the area. As we travelled around Ajijic and the magnificent city of Guadaljara. doors, windows, furniture and accessories gave opportunities for much picture taking.
In Ajijic we took in the local art exhibit and sale on the new malecon in Chapala (Februaruy 17-21). Ceramics, jewelery, clothing and more were displayed for the 4 day event. Workshops were offered daily in the various art forms.
Laguna Artes Plasticas, a new artist group held "Feria Artes" at the new Centro Laguna mall, February 13 and 14 complete with music and food to make it a festival for those attending.
This week we attended the 36th "Enart" Expo held at the Centro Cultural El Refugio in Tlagquepaque (part of Guadalajara). This is an event Don and I attend every February and August. It is a National Mexican Trade Fair for store buyers. This is always a feast for the eyes. The creativity and talent that you are exposed to is thrilling. After the event we toured parts of Tlaquepaque were my sistern and her friend purchased woven place mats and napkins (my sister bought them for her B&B in Manitoba). She could not believe the low prices!!
The art galleries in Ajijic are plentiful. All one has to do is walk along Calle 16 de Septembre to spend the day going in and out of galleries. The variety is endless.
The old train station in Chapala has been renovated into an art centre and show cases art on a regular basis. What a beautiful venue it is!
Young artists who have been schooled in the arts program in Ajijic have grown into well known artists in their own right and have produced some amazing murals in Ajijic and Chapala which must be seen if you are a visitor. They tell the story of the Lakeside and are gorgeous.
Today we are off to Tonala, another part of Guadalajara were artisans create all forms of art that are shipped around the world.
Don, having a life long interest in photography and in my mind a very good photgrapher, recently joined the ASA group (Ajijic Society of the Arts) in Ajijic. They are having a show February 21 on the Ajijic Plaza. This is a very active, well organized group of local artists in all disciplines.
Have I wet your appetite? If you love art this is the place!!
I will add more later as we are off to Tonola for the day to take in all there is to take in!!