The new residence for international artists has been opened in a beautiful property AtotonilcoOutside of San Miguel de Alende.
“For centuries, the extraordinary energy of Adodonilco has made it possible for hot water to flow and spiritual interest and bustle.” The way of artMonica Contraras that refers to the well -known natural hot springs of Adodonilco. “In 2020, I decided that artists, writers and creative minds would be a platform that could collect the creation of intelligence and beauty.”
In October 2023, when Mexican and the American non -profit, were welcomed by its first artist, the vision of the contrast of a special place for imagination and invention became a reality. Since then, the architectural stadiums surrounded by messy trees have developed the work of 23 creators from Canada, the United States, Mexico and South America.
One of these artists is Antonio Castro, a professor of art at Texas-L Faso University.
Castro says, “The purpose of Comino Al Art is to create opportunities to connect with San Miguel de Alende and the art community in the surrounding areas for artists growing and established artists from all over the world,” says Castro. “But, more than that, this is a place that promotes meaningful conversations – especially about the problems that affect society – also affects how we are creating.”
With a unique philosophy that welcomes women artists with their children, senior artists over 70 years of age and growing artists are aimed at being a trigger in the Kamino Al Arte community from school.
Visiting artists have onsite educational events on local important topics. Condras operates closely with schools, teachers and families.
“Thanks to artists, we are able to fund the Somos El Arte, we are able to finance it,” he said. “We primarily (we give) about 20 workshops, classes and demonstrations per year for young people, women and teachers.”
Internationally recognized artists
It seems that Contraraz seems to be his original dream, which is “by drowning people’s lives and expressing the arts.”
“We are starting, but in five years, the Comino Al Arte will provide a strong residency plan, a scholarship for emerging artists and expanded infrastructure for the artistic educational activities of our community.”
Although the Conteraz has a special place in her heart for growing and senior artists, The way of art Those who have a well -established life like Professor Castro will escape.
This April this is, the artist’s residence Daniel TrucciNew York Times, USA Today and Sunday Times Top 10 Best Novelist. His most recent novel, The puzzle box, Recently, the Los Angeles Times won the book prize in the mystery/thriller category.
Daniel says that the Comino Al -Art came to seek peace and tranquility.
“I published a book last October. I toured the whole month. In that winter, I wrote a project for a new book that was sold. It was a serious four months. Now I need a signature of finished by July. I have a tight deadline.”
Daniel laughed at the seven -year -old daughter.
“There is A lot Noise in my house. This is the first time I was able to remain silent. I meditate in the morning. I was able to go into the normal rhythm of my work. I am walking, and if I want, I will write at midnight. ”
Castro found his time The way of art Must be an experience of changing life. A successful graphic designer who already has several significant awards, he came to the residence to do something unique and unique to commemorate his mother’s memory.
“My mother has passed away after the previous year Louis Padi fought against Dementia, which is an evil and degradation disease,” she says. “Seeing her children and her husband forgot it caused a devastation not only to her but for our entire family.
“Likewise, I saw the strength to document her final years by photography, and I wanted to use the foundation for a new job. For more than three serious weeks in the Comino Al -Art, I saw her sickness and reflecting deeply reflecting on what it means to be her son.”
Castro added, “It gave me space and attention to being in such a secluded place. Focus on processing everything I was.” “In a way, it became a personal grief, but with the eyes of an artist.”
A positive social impact
One of the beliefs of the Contras for the future is to focus more on beneficial interactions with families in the Adodonic community.
“In the last summer, Uruguaya Resident Serrana Dell Castilo decided to expand his cultural exchange experience by spending his cultural exchange experience at the home of a social leader, Carmen Munos, to learn how to cook like the locals of Cherrana, to teach her basics from gathering. Moll And creating new tortillas. I like this memory, because it illustrates the magic that happens in the Comino Al -Art: Local and Visiting Skills Meeting, joining the hands to make something extraordinary. ”
Contraraz has recently launched a new program called The Community Impact Residency. Possible by the Fomano Educational AC, this scholarship provides a unique opportunity to communicate with the Mexican communities to the developing artists and graduate students from the United States.
Residents are selected to create useful programs that solve important social problems such as mandatory migration, water shortage, teenage pregnancy and curvature.
“The way of art Some of our most vulnerable communities are focused on alleviating the consequences of living without accessing art and culture, ”says Conteraz.
The social impact of the non -profit company gives thanks to the donations and contributions of hosts and artists.
Nurturing the multi -cultural understanding
This sanctuary is a rare opportunity to learn about other cultures, where artists around the world live, create and volunteer.
“I was born in Sivava’s Chiudad Juarez,” says Castro. “Like many border residents, I divided my young years between Juaves (Mexico) and Texas’s El Faso. Spanish was my first language. And the duality of life on the border became the part of the duality of life.”
Castro says that living at a meeting of two countries is a unique experience
“Nevertheless, this duality enrichs us, rather than a source of confusion or conflict. The border is not divided by these impacts; we are completely and more flexible,” he says. “I have found that those who grow up on the border are significantly adaptable. Often I am thriving in situations where individuals can challenge the interior of the country.”
The way of art In many ways Mexico has a revolutionary new addition to the ever -growing cultural offerings. Also, as Castro has pointed out, immersing in other cultures and languages is a source of enrichment and understanding.
“There is a clear hope from going to many worlds daily. It is a strength, a way of viewing, the way to exist – and in my case, a way to create.”
Comino Al Arte offers two, four, six and eight weeks, with flexibility for those who want to stay for a long time.
To apply, please contact Kamino Al Art here:
(Email protected)
+52 415 167 1255 (Mexico)
+1 646 327 3774 (US)
Anne Richards San Miguel de Alende is a writer.