Knowing Mexico through art

Landscapes, portals and alleys, brides, dancers and fishermen were protagonists of a scenic tour around the state of Michoacan, in Mexico.

About sixty travelers were exposed to historical sites in the cities of Morelia, Uruapan, Patzcuaro, and other destinations in the state that gave birth to the painter Victor Alfaro Cerdeneta, author of the collection consisting of 40 works, made with different materials and techniques, predominantly watercolors and oil paintings on canvas.

Last Saturday, the Douglas Art Gallery, welcomed community leaders, officials of public institutions and general public interested in knowing "Landscapes of Michoacán", title of the collection which will remain throughout the month of January, for the enjoyment of the community living in this border.

At exactly 2 pm, music of saxophonist Francisco Barrios, offered a harmonic accompaniment to visitors who paraded through each of the painter's works. After touring the exhibit, people had the opportunity of tasting delicious wine and snacks prepared especially for the occasion, while talking about their favorite works, listening to music or approaching the staff of the Consulate of Mexico in Douglas, to thank them for the invitation and acknowledge their efforts to broaden the range of cultural and community activities in the city.

The moment came for the author to address a few words to the crowd. "What can one say about his own job?" The artist questioned at the beginning of his speech. "All I can say is that this is my passion and that each one of my paints is dedicated to magical places I've had the opportunity to know and wonderful moments I've had the joy of living."

Finally, Victor Alfaro Cerdeneta thanked to Douglas Art Gallery "for opening its doors" to his work, and, especially to the Consulate of Mexico in Douglas, "for all its support and its efforts to promote Mexican art beyond borders". The public recognized the artist with generous applause and there were those who approached to congratulate him on his work.

It was later than 4 in the afternoon and some groups of people were still visiting the show, sipping a glass of wine or just talking. It seemed they did not want that such a warm reception came to an end. Sadly, all that begins must end, so, before the exhibit closes its doors to the public, we invite you to visit the Douglas Art Gallery throughout the month of January, to know "Landscapes of Michoacán", a magical selection of places and times captured in Victor Cerdeneta´s painting.

For more information, please contact the Consulate of Mexico in Douglas at (520) 364 3107 and 364 3142, or write to douglas@sre.gob.mx.