San Miguel de Allende is a living canvas. The gorgeous Mexican UNESCO world heritage site still rings with the influence of Spanish colonial architecture but has a unique Mexican charm that brings primary colors and under-the-radar modern art galleries into the picture. For decades, the town has lured artists with its baroque architecture, cobblestone streets and bustling markets – the perfect backdrop for artistic endeavors. The presence of local and international artists has made the town a hub for creativity across disciplines, from old world oil paintings to sculptures to multimedia platform installations.
One of the most enriching aspects of San Miguel de Allende is the opportunity to engage with the artists themselves. Working studios and galleries throughout the city are largely open to the public. Far from the typical gallery experience, San Miguel offers guests firsthand access to seeing artists work up close. Fabrica la Aurora is a working art gallery and the center of artistic life in San Miguel with consistent workshops and cultural events for community members to engage in Mexican art. EXIM Galeria is another local option that showcases the work of regional Mexican artists. Skot Foreman’s art gallery, once a staple in the big apple, also has a fine art presence in San Miguel, with works on display from some the greats of the last century: Warhol, Basquiat, Dali, and more.
Casa de Sierra Nevada, a Belmond Hotel, blends seamlessly into the historic artistic scene of San Miguel. Built from former colonial mansions, including that of San Miguel de Allende’s one-time archbishop, Casa de Sierra Nevada steeps its visitors in the luxury and splendor of colonial Spain, while its cultural and artistic workshops immerse travelers in the warmth and beauty of Mexican culture. In the much-loved Mojigangas workshop, visitors learn how to create the beloved papier mâché effigies that are paraded through the streets during the region’s Festival de Maiz (corn festival). Equally popular are the art workshops, where visitors take their pick of oil, acrylic, or watercolor classes taught by a local artist knowledgeable of the area’s current art scene.
San Miguel is becoming an art lover’s paradise, and for good reason. Colonial, vibrant-colored architecture and cobblestone streets mesh host bustling produce markets and world class gastronomy. Just a stone’s throw from where Diego Rivera was born, San Miguel is the perfect place for an artful escape this winter.
