Art

Mexico has 570 public art galleries, of which 12 are in Baja California Sur and 34 in Baja California.[1]  However, it is possible to visit more than 12 art galleries in Todos Santos alone, for both art exhibits and purchase of artwork by Mexican and foreign artists.  According to experts and art and culture promoters, art education for children and young people, as well as their parents, would add tremendously to art appreciation in the state.

“Mtro. Carlos Olachea” Gallery in La Paz is dedicated to younger, less experienced artists, as well as state and national artists, with exhibits that range from cartoons to conceptual art.  In 2003, there were 79 shows; three were collective and the rest were individual shows.  There are four other public galleries in La Paz.

Public art had not been promoted by the state government prior to the recent pier beautification program in La Paz city.  This project included placing several sculptures along the Paseo Alvaro Obregón.  In August 2005, Wyland, an internationally-recognized artist, painted a marine mural on the tax bureau (Hacienda) building, which is visible from most vantage points along the malecón in La Paz.  Aside from the fact that these sculpture and mural projects are important for promoting public art, local artists have not welcomed it.  They are not pleased with priority for artists outside the region or the selection process.[2]

Providing income for professionals in the creative arts is a key element to a vibrant arts scene.  For example, linking art to health and environmental educational programs has not been sufficiently explored.  Poster contests, photo exhibits, and public murals are all examples of public campaigns that could benefit artists and promote awareness of these issues.  “Artist-in-residence” programs could also provide scholarships and revenue.

Public art is usually present in festivals, founding celebrations, carnivals, and patron saint festivities.  Art festivals in Todos Santos and Los Barriles draw both tourists and residents, providing an income stream for local artists.  Also common in these events are outdoor presentations of art pieces, different genres of music, folkloric, and other dance groups, including Hawaiian, Polynesian, or Tahitian.

Consumption of alcoholic beverages is often linked with folk culture events, including patron saint festivities.  To a large extent, this situation is due to the monopoly held by large beverage corporations, which organize and sponsor traditional dances and festivities.