ART & CULTURE
The Return of Art Walk Season By Sabrina Lear
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ach Thursday evening from November through June, the captivating streets of historic San José del Cabo’s vibrant Art District are alive with color and creativity. Hidden behind the church off Plaza Mijares, the main square, the area is closed to traffic from 5 to 9 p.m. for Art Walk. Mingle in the many galleries with a glass of complementary wine or spirits while taking in the scene and enjoying the very friendly atmosphere. Safe and suitable for families, it’s a chance to meet artists, attend new exhibits and experience an unforgettable side of Los Cabos that many visitors miss. Art Walk was created by the Gallery District Association to attract art lovers and tourists from the main square, where the Jardin del Arte group exhibits, not to be confused with Art Walk. The 14 member galleries are each recognizable by distinctive plaques out front. Exhibiting a wide range of genres from paintings and sculpture to ceramics, folk art, photography and jewelry it’s easy to fall in love with a favorite piece. Along with the 14, are other shops with top local folk artists and artisans.
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www.DestinoLosCabos.com
The Art District is compact and easy to walk. From Plaza Mijares, cross the street to the church and turn right. You’ll find paintings, pottery and folk art at La Sacrístia and an eclectic mix of established Mexican artists at Patricia Mendoza further down, on the corner of Calle Obregon. Up Obregon, view contemporary art from Basque artist Enrique Bascón. Corsica’s museum quality fine art and sculptures are from renowned Mexican Masters and upcoming talents. Desértica’s eclectic contemporary collection, and exquisite Paquime pottery from Chihuahua at Mata Ortiz are next, bringing you to Calle Morelos. Turn left for some of Baja’s top contemporary and abstract artists at Leah Porter’s Casa Dahlia, a few doors up. Back on Obregon, El Armario’s Mexican folk art is on the corner along with an al fresco coffee shop, followed by Muvezi’s African Shona sculptures and artwork up to the left. Next door, Ivan Guaderrama’s contemporary Christian paintings and sculptures focus on expressions of love, faith, and music through themes of angels, hearts and abstracts. Old Town’s seasoned artists capture the color, culture, and light of Baja. At Calle Guerrero, turn left for artist Ida Gustafson’s Ida Victoria, a two story high-end gallery with a colorful and eclectic collection of original art and sculpture from North American and Mexican artists as well as a custom frame studio.
If you’re driving from Cabo San Lucas or the Corridor, plan to park on Calle Centenario, the boulevard that runs behind the downtown area. For easiest access, park close to the foot of Morelos Street (look for El Encanto Suites on the corner) and walk from there. You’ll immediately be drawn into a charming and festive atmosphere. Stop at Plaza Paulina to visit Julian Garcia’s Arte for paintings and distinctive sculptures in bronze, steel and stone. International abstract painter and sculptor Frank Arnold is around the corner on Comonfort, facing Centenario. Consider arriving early for Art Walk and staying for dinner. The Art District boasts some of Los Cabos’ finest restaurants and many feature live music during Art Walk. Popular spots are La Dolce, Jazmin’s, H Restaurant, La Lupita and Baja Brewing. The Art District can be very busy Thursday nights and reservations are strongly recommended. If you miss out on Art Walk, visit the Art District any time, most galleries and shops are open daily, generally from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. or thereabouts. Learn more at www.artcabo.com *