San Miguel de Allende’s Department of Culture and Traditions started the “urban gallery” project through which, in its first edition, the Malanquín “cajón” bridge has been decorated by 10 artists originating from or residing in San Miguel.

It will be the first urban gallery in the state of Guanajuato. Guadalajara, Querétaro and Monterrey have previously implemented similar projects. 

The artists began to paint their murals on Nov. 21, and the official gallery opening, which will be attended by the artists, will be on Dec.10. The municipal president plans to renovate the gallery every eight months. 

For the first edition artists were allowed an open topic with the stipulation that their works represent positive subject matters related to well-being. During the elaboration process, neighbors lent their ladders, and donated brushes and food to the artists.

Paulina Cadena Gallardo, Director of the Department of Culture and Traditions, told Atención that the urban gallery is intended to offer passerbys culture and show “a very noble part of culture that is collaboration with young people to make urban art.” Additionally, Gallardo said that the gallery was a joint effort between her department, the artists, and public services who equipped the place with lighting for the bridge.

The gallery is part of an initiative to create spaces dedicated to urban art and to encourage Sanmiguelenses’ participation in urban culture.

Sources: Paulina Gallardo, Director of Culture and Traditions in San Miguel de Allende.