Saturday, July 2, 2011

Manuel Lepe’s legacy to Puerto Vallarta



Puerto Vallarta and Mexico are known for the quality of its beaches and a variety of canopy tours, water sports and other activities. Whether you´re seeking adventure or just a tranquil week of rest at the beach, Puerto Vallarta is definitely a great option. No disappointments here. What many visitors still don’t know is that Vallarta and Mexico are recognized internationally as a mecca of art and culture.
Puerto Vallarta was catapulted into the international scene during the shooting of the acclaimed John Huston film, “The Night of the Iguana”. Queen Elizabeth II sparked international media coverage when she arrived in Vallarta during the 1960’s. The queen; now the longest reigning monarch in British history, caused a sharp surge of interest in local art when it bought Los Pescadores, an elaborate painting by renowned artist Manuel Lepe (1936-1984).
He was an epic painter, often compared with Russian artist Marc Chagall. His paintings depict scenes of innocence and unprecedented natural beauty. Lepe has been responsible for the arrival of international artists to Puerto Vallarta. His legacy continues until today. He was recently honored with the presentation of a mural at the Naval Historical Museum of Puerto Vallarta, with a replica of his masterpiece, Los Pescadores (The Fishermen), 26 years after his death.
The rich and colorful tradition of Lepe art is still alive in his paintings and murals, visible all over the city, especially at City Hall in the heart of the Historic Center, where two stunning murals of his cityscapes are shown
Currently, major international artists such as Martha Gilbert and Rogelio Diaz, find inspiration for their majestic works in colorful sunsets, the rich heritage and unique characters that have made Puerto Vallarta a unique destination in Mexico.

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