A Night Out with Art: Join Puerto Vallarta's Weekly Gathering A 29-Year Wednesday Tradition That Brings Together Art, Culture and Community

BY ZIA AHMAD

ASIDE FROM BEING A CHARMING COASTAL TOWN KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING BEACHES AND VIBRANT CULTURE, PUERTO VALLARTA IS ALSO HOME TO A THRIVING ART SCENE.

One of the must-see events for art enthusiasts is the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk, a weekly gathering that showcases the town's rich artistic heritage and talent.

Dating back to 1995, the art walk was established by a long-time resident of Puerto Vallarta, Barbara Peters. It was initially a group of five-member galleries. Before the ArtWalk pamphlet as we’ve seen it, those galleries collaborated to print an art guide. Back then, Centro was a more vibrant neighborhood than Zona Romantica, and people frequently explored the area.

Today, held every Wednesday evening from 6 to 10 p.m. between October and June, the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk invites locals and visitors to explore the town's diverse selection of galleries, studios, and artists' cooperatives.

Led by Carolina Orozco from Galeria de Ollas—the current president of the ArtWalk—member galleries meet a couple of times a year, plan the pamphlet, and aim to organize more focused events.

“ArtWalk gallery members have something in common,” Orozco shared with me in an email exchange. “We love art. Mexican art is rich and expressive, and each gallery dedicates its space to different media trying to share this richness.”

As president of the ArtWalk, Carolina ensures that the brochure, website, and distribution are on time and in the hands of the visitors. The member galleries are organized as a group and share with visitors not just the business of art, but the art of galleries working in unison, according to her.

“During all these years I have enjoyed bringing this group together; even when we have different points of view, we make decisions as a group,” she wrote.

I met Santiago Redmond, one of the owners of a participating gallery—the Galeria Browne—located on Calle Leona Vicario. Together with his business and life partner, David E. Brown, and assistant Jorge Joya, he participates in organizing the ArtWalk. That is in addition to managing the operational aspects of their gallery such as art curation, client-facing, and consultancy.

The couple, from Chicago, had been vacationing in Vallarta for over seventeen years. They had attended the ArtWalk, and, with each visit, the need to showcase and appreciate the art in Mexico had gotten stronger in them. Today, other art aficionados and gallery owners in the area share their sentiments and take part in running an event that provides a unique opportunity to engage with Puerto Vallarta's flourishing art community and discover a wide range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry.

During ArtWalk nights, Santiago shared with me while I fumbled through my bag to fetch a pair of reading glasses, that more than two hundred people visit the gallery.

The majority of Galeria Browne’s clientele are from the United States, with approximately seventy percent representing the LGBTQ+ community, he added.

“We have tailored our gallery to cater to this demographic,” he said.

During the ArtWalk, participants can stroll through the streets of Puerto Vallarta's historic downtown area and visit various participating venues. Some galleries offer complimentary cocktails, fostering a welcoming atmosphere as attendees interact with gallery owners and artists.

When asked about the selection criteria of an artist to present their art, Redmond emphasized that getting wall space at the gallery is competitive, hence they have to be selective about the artists they showcase based on their work and personality, as well as whether the art piece fits with their gallery theme and if it is likely to sell.

“Connecting with the right artist can happen at an art fair, through social media, and even by artists approaching us directly,” he further explained.

The participating galleries often feature the works of both established and emerging artists, providing a comprehensive overview of the local and international art scene. Visitors can expect to encounter traditional Mexican art, contemporary pieces, and experimental creations, ensuring a diverse experience for art lovers of all tastes and preferences.

To my inquiry on any new plans for this year's ArtWalk, Santiago informed me that individual galleries usually plan their events, but there might be more street fairtype street closures for foot traffic, as it currently happens once a year.

I could sense a hint of pride in Redmond’s voice when he shared with me that the Galeria Browne aims to provide a piece of Mexico through art to its customers to take home. It was shortly before he emphasized that bright colors, textures, and abstract expressionist pieces with a sense of joy and happiness were the main themes for the gallery. The majority of the artists showcasing their art at the gallery come from Mexico, he went on.

“The gallery can ship art worldwide, and shipping is relatively affordable.”

Beyond the artistic offerings, the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk is a great way to immerse oneself in the town's vibrant culture. The event captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta as a hub of creativity, where local and international artists contribute to the town's everevolving artistic landscape.

Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or simply appreciate the beauty of creative expression, by: the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk offers a visually stimulating experience. By meandering through the cobblestone streets and engaging with the diverse array of artworks, participants can gain a deeper appreciation for the town's artistry and cultural vibrancy.

With its unique blend of art, culture, and community, the Puerto Vallarta ArtWalk remains a cherished tradition that continues to captivate and inspire visitors from near and far.

Encuentra nuestra versión en español en: outandaboutpv.com

BY JERRY JONES

CHEF ROMAN VENTURA, VOTED PUERTO VALLARTA’S FAVORITE GAY CHEF, IS SHAKING THINGS UP WITH TWO UNIQUE CULINARY CONCEPTS AS HE EMBARKS ON HIS TENTH YEAR AS A CHEF.

Dive into the heart of Mexico with his immersive Mascota food tour, or join the exclusive Ventura Chef Services Supper Club for one-of-akind themed dinners.

“I love creating memorable celebrations with our private dinner and catering services,” Chef Ventura said. “But I have been exploring ways to expand on what we can do to help people learn more about our culture.”

Which leads to two new “experiences” that he will be offering starting this fall - A culture and food experience tour, and the introduction of a “Supper Club”.

Says the Chef, “with the evergrowing popularity of Puerto Vallarta and the many repeat visitors, I think it’s important to create different ways for people to experience Mexican history, culture and food.”

A New Culinary Adventure

Chef Ventura is inviting food and travel enthusiasts on a two-day immersive exploration of Mascota, Jalisco, his birthplace, and the nearby town of Talpa de Allende.

The tour promises to be an unforgettable journey through the heart of Mexico, combining delectable cuisine, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

The chef, renowned for his innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, is eager to share the authentic flavors and traditions of his hometown.

“Having been born in Mascota and with many family members still living there, I am proud of this beautiful place,” Ventura said. “This unique culinary tour includes food, drink and cultural highlights that offer a glimpse into Mexico's rich history, natural beauty, and spiritual heritage. For travelers seeking authentic Mexican experiences, Mascota and Talpa de Allende are incredible destinations only two hours from Puerto Vallarta.”

The two-day experience includes activities and menus curated by the chef that will delight all of your senses. Guests will partake in the local culture, sample traditional raicilla, and discover hidden gems as they wander through these picturesque towns.

Chef Ventura plans to offer the tour one or two times a month, depending on demand, and hopes one day to offer tours to other destinations in Mexico.

“One of the best ways to learn about Mexican culture and history is through our food and I would love to share my experiences in Oaxaca, Merida, Guadalajara, Mexico City and other places across Mexico,” Chef Ventura explained.

The first Mascota/Talpa de Allende culinary adventure is scheduled for

November 16 - 17, 2024 and includes the following:

• Transportation

• One night hotel, double occupancy

• All meals, including one breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner

• A Raicilla Experience

• Walking tours of Talpa de Allende & Mascota

If you’d like more information about the tour details and pricing, please contact venturachefservices@gmail.com.

VENTURA CHEF SERVICES SUPPER CLUB

Since creating Ventura Chef Services in 2021, the chef has been interested in the concept of “pop-up” dinners as a way of introducing guests to his creativity and food.

Pop-ups are popular around the world especially for foodies looking for a dining experience that include themed menus, unique venues, and the opportunity to meet other likeminded, food-focused individuals.

The Ventura Chef Services Supper Club dinners, like pop-ups, will have themed menus for 8-16 diners, at different locations in Puerto Vallarta. Diners will purchase tickets in advance from the chef’s website.

“I love creating new dishes,” says Chef Ventura, “and I look forward to sharing my latest creations with guests.”

At the end of every Supper Club dinner, the chef plans to have a discussion with the guests about the experience.

The chef is meeting with different venues about hosting supper club dinners with the plan to offer the first supper club in early fall. For the venues, it's an opportunity to introduce their businesses to guests that otherwise might not be familiar with their services or location.

Stay tuned to the chef’s website and Facebook for more information about the supper club. You can also send an email to venturachefservices@gmail.com to be added to a special Ventura Chef Services Supper Club mailing list.

Encuentra nuestra versión en español en: outandaboutpv.com

BY ZIA AHMAD

TUCKED BETWEEN SAYULITA AND SAN PANCHO, ABOUT FORTYFIVE KILOMETERS NORTH OF PUERTO VALLARTA, IS PLAYA MALPASO, A BEACH KNOWN FOR ITS STUNNING BEAUTY AND RICH CULTURAL FOLKLORE.

Locals believe it once was a sacred space for native Indians, where by: they’d witnessed a deer jumping into the fire, symbolizing the meeting of death and new life. Today, a shaman visits the site, makes offerings to the gods, and prays.

This is the type of experience Ezeqkiel Lozano—the entrepreneur behind Vallarta Experiences— promises to deliver to his clients which goes beyond the hikes and breathtaking views and discovers the essence and history of a place.

Ezeqkiel, a lover of photography and travel, has embarked on several personal and business ventures. Still, one common theme binds them: his relentless pursuit of a deeper human connection, spirituality, and cultural exploration.

He refers to his business ventures as his children.

“I have four kids,” he informed me the day I joined him at Juicy Drags, one of his offspring, “and the fifth one is on its way.”

Ezeqkiel and his husband moved to Puerto Vallarta four years ago from Mexico City, where they still run an Airbnb and manage Brains and Play, a training and certification business for adults to improve strategy, brain activity, and talent enhancement using Lego blocks. Like children playing with toys, participants bring out their creativity that aims to transform human behavior in a positive direction, Ezeqkiel said.

“Before coming to P.V.—our first visit—we considered moving to Bali, Indonesia, as our happy place”, Ezeqkiel recalled.

But they fell in love with the mountains, the beach, the sand, and the brilliant blue of the Pacific surrounding this magical town. Soon, they set roots in P.V. by opening Juicy Drags, their third child, a smoothie bar & bistro, also a safe space for anyone looking to explore drag with makeup, wigs, and costumes.

Ezeqkiel knew there was more to the city than the parties and lounging by the beach. And despite his love for the alluring LGBTQ+ scene in Zona Romantica, he began exploring nearby areas around P.V. such as Bucerias, Punta Mita, Sayulita, and San Pancho to the north, Chimo and Yelapa to the south, and San Sebastian in the mountains.

He longed to embrace human experiences and cultures, not just visit famous landmarks. This inspired him to create Vallarta Experiences, combining his love for photography and travel into a new business venture he described as his "fourth child."

“I wanted to show Vallarta not just through my eyes, but through my love of the city,” he said as he sat down after handing me ice-cold water that warm summer day. “Vallarta can be anything you want it to be,” he added. “Just be happy.”

Aside from the hikes to the Malpaso beach and visits to historical places like San Pancho, Vallarta Experiences has incorporated alluring offers such as Drag Queen Friday and Katrina For A Day that separate it from similar businesses.

With the spirit behind Juicy Drags, Drag Queen Friday aims to allow clients to connect with their inner feminine selves—a two-day experience where they accompany a seasoned drag queen who assists with exploring their character in drag. The following day is about having an experience as a drag queen.

A client, a trained opera vocalist, loved it so much, Ezeqkiel said, that they decided to be an opera singer in drag by having their show in P.V. soon.

If drag is not your thing, you can choose to be a Katrina for a day and have a photoshoot session, according to Ezeqkiel.

Vallarta Experiences makes the experience even more fun by including the Red Door Mobile Bar in these adventures.

Ezeqkiel has seamlessly incorporated his passion for photography into his business. From capturing spontaneous moments of the humans of Mexico City through street photography to now focusing on seizing the expressions of his unsuspecting clients of all ages and body sizes—male and female, nude or clothed—he engages them in deep conversations, bringing out their true emotions seconds before pressing the camera button. He loves seeing the joy on their faces as he shares the results with them later.

Ezekiel says it is enchanting to witness them overcome any insecurities and enjoy the freedom nudity delivers in an artistic fashion. Vallarta Experiences has many bookings on the calendar, and Ezeqkiel plans to expand his business beyond P.V. to other cities such as Guadalajara & Tequila.

But he isn’t done yet. His next adventure, his fifth child, will be a joint venture with one of his best friends, Juan Carlos—the Xiekari Healing Center & Spa—a space specializing not just for the body but for the healing of the mind and soul.

So get ready to meet a shaman and a medium—who will transport you to a realm beyond the human mind’s comprehension—because that’s what Ezeqkiel Lozano, a lover of nature and culture, aims to bring to the already magical town of Puerto Vallarta. A deep spiritual awakening.

Encuentra nuestra versión en español en: outandaboutpv.com