Doors in Ajijic

Art is everywhere here - even on the doors to peoples' houses!

Although most people think of San Miguel Allende as the "artist colony" in this area, the truth is there are many forms of art to be amazed and inspired by within a day or two drive from here.  Each one seems to have it's specialty, if you will.  Hand-crafted furniture, for example, is mainly done in an area at the far end, and east of Lake Chapala.  Woven baskets and sombreros are mainly done in an area across the lake from us here (as are finely crafted knives).  In Oaxaca they make wonderful woven things - rugs and more.  Then there is Guadalajara, which is a huge city that has nearly every form of art available to see and purchase.  Our favorite place, if I could choose one, would be a suburb called Tonala that is the place to find tile, pewter, stonewear, glassware, etc. etc.  Everything there is available in a sort of no frills, outlet area - no fancy shops here!  Generally the items are being produced in back of the store.

But back to Ajijic - here they have many people, both locals and gringos that are doing every kind of art.  The small group here (Ajijic Society of the Arts) is very active.  Check their website at www.ajijicart.weebly.com for just a small representation of the members' work.  This weekend is their annual judged show where painters, sculpters, photographers, jewelry and clothing designers and others all come together.  I can't wait! There is such a huge pool of talent here (some huge egos as well, but that's another story).  A few new friends from the jewelry group here will be competing.  And then everything is on display until the end of the month at the Cultural Center at the plaza.

An even larger representation of the enthusiasm for the arts in this area is an annual expo called Feria de los Maestros del Arte which draws from the entire country.  It happens in early November every year somewhere in the Lake Chapala area.  For more information and a look at the various forms of art represented at this fantastic show see their website at www.mexicoartshow.com.  I have not been here to see the show yet, but we will be back in time to see it this year.  Another potential event that would be fun to volunteer for as well!