Art is a way to express oneself, to tell stories; and to speak of personal experiences, beliefs, fascinations, and mystical elements that come from our roots. It’s a fascinating universe, and if art is a universe, each artist is a planet of their own.
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to appreciate a little piece of the planet that is Abel Vázquez, a Oaxacan artist who is presenting his exhibition “Alientos y Susurros del Mayab” at the Museo de la Ciudad de Mérida (Mérida City Museum). The exhibit includes acrylic pieces, drawings, sculptures, and impressive handmade tapestries.
On this occasion, Abel shares works that show the related mysticism and cosmogony between the Mixtecs of Oaxaca and the Maya of Yucatán. But that’s not all. You’ll observe a strong presence of the female figure, the essence of humanity, as well as evidence of Abel’s own experiences that give his pieces an intimate sensibility.
“I tend to search within my emotions and leave a narrative that reflects everything that goes on inside my life,” the artist shared during the guided tour. While I had the opportunity to enjoy Abel’s company, you can take a look at the story behind his works through the QR codes available at the exhibit. They’re wonderful. I ended up saving a couple of them to visit again and again.
The exhibition “Alientos y Susurros del Mayab” will be available until May. If you won’t be in town before the end date, or are waiting a little longer before you start venturing around the city again, you’ll be happy to know that there are more pieces on display and for sale at Nahualli Gallery, a beautifully restored house where art is the center of everything.
At Nahualli Gallery, not only will you find works by Abel Vázquez, but by his whole family. Yes, they feature a project created by a whole family of artists; and this is perceived throughout the exhibit: you feel right at home. Nahualli Gallery allows you to appreciate the artwork, enjoy special events, and even delve deeper into the artists’ home with Nahualli Experiences, a guided tour of the exhibition and the creative’s work space.
How does this sound? Get to see the place where the magic happens and discover the tools and techniques used by the artists. With a little luck, you’ll run into one of them deeply immersed in the creative process. Nahualli Experiences also includes a guided tour of the gallery and all its works, two drinks (cocktails included), and the opportunity to meet the artists in person.
I don’t know about you, but I’m already craving a day full of art. A museum, a gallery, and a workshop? Sounds like the perfect plan.
Editorial by Olivia Camarena Cervera
Editorial Assistant
Photography by Olivia Camarena Cervera for use in Yucatán Today.
Museo de la Ciudad
Calle 56 x 65 y 65-A, Centro, Mérida
Tel. (999) 923 6869
FB: Museo de la Ciudad de Mérida
IG: @museocdmerida
Tue. – Sun. 10 am – 4 pm
Free admission.
Nahualli Gallery
Calle 60 #405 x 43 y 45, Santa Ana, Mérida
Tel. (999) 928 6566
www.nahualligallery.com
FB: Galería Nahualli
Mon. – Fri. 10 am – 6 pm
Free admission. Cost of Nahualli Experience: $800 pesos.
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