Top 10 Art Galleries In Puerto Vallarta 2019

Just because I’m not good at visual art myself doesn’t mean I don’t really appreciate it…in fact, my near-total lack of skill in the pursuit only amplifies my appreciation for those who do have the proverbial juice. As a result I find myself spending time in a lot of art galleries around this sunny city by the sea, and while I’m certainly no art critic these are a few of my favorite places to feast my eyes.

OPC

OPC serves as a hub for local artists as well as carrying weight on the national creative circuit. The gallery features a rotating schedule of exhibitions with thought-provoking themes as well as hosting regular workshops that are open to the public, allowing even those with dumb fingers (like myself) to tap into the human divinity of self-expression.

Caballito De Mar

This stylish and eclectic showcase is comprised of work from artisans from across the country. From Oaxcan black clay pottery with an alluring matte sheen to decorative silver housewares and even traditional handcrafted garments, Caballito de Mar is an excellent place to sharply increase your overall aesthetic quotient.

Galeria Uno

This two-story gallery in the heart of town draws in the curious with exhibitions of multiple media types including painting and sculpture. Galeria Uno also regularly hosts Saturday crafting  workshops for those whose enthusiasm exceeds their experience, and this is where Fá and Raquel actually managed to teach me to macrame after an afternoon of careful coaching.

ArtVallarta

Art Vallarta is a fixture of the city’s Romantic Zone, perched high on a hill off Olas Altas. On the gallery’s three exhibition floors, visitors can take in the work of national artists as well as contributors from across the continent as well as participating in a variety of classes and special events. Think I left my notebook there once too, so if anybody sees it while they’re up there…

Galleria Dante

Stationed below one of the city’s snazziest lounges (and finest margaritas) is Galleria Dante, an anchor of the posh Basilio Badillo strip. This gallery hosts the talents of over 50 artists in an array of media types within its 8 exhibition rooms, from new and emerging names to well-known artists, the kind you see in museums.

Eccentrica Jewelry Boutique

A little further south along the same street awaits Eccentrica, a gallery specializing in statement pieces you can wear. I’ve veered verbose on the significance of self-decoration before–short version, anyone who has ever seen a military uniform knows that the person with the most decorations is probably in charge–and Kim’s creations are an especially appealing application of the concept.

Qulture

The Q is a space that is totally unique in the city, combining an art gallery with over two dozen contributors, a polished cocktail bar, and one of the area’s better dining experiences under one roof (and a roofless courtyard, technically). Fittingly, this gallery has a full schedule of special events from jazz nights to Sunday brunches, and even offers guided tours on Tuesdays. Come for the scenery, stay for the scene.

Galleria Demetro

If you haven’t yet met Jim DeMetro, I’m willing to wager you’ve encountered his work. The bronze dance partners on the Malecon? That’s a DeMetro. The kids in Parque Lázaro Cárdenas struggling to make a donkey into less of a stubborn ass? Another one. The fisherman napping near the pier? You get the point, and Galeria Demetro gives you a chance to meet the man himself. Bonus: available sculpture lessons.

Tierra Huichol

Just wouldn’t be right to have this list without a huichol gallery, and Tierra Huichol gets the nod for its outstanding selection. Visit the gallery to fully appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into individually affixing tiny glass beads to a sculpture using nothing but beeswax and the patience of a high school teacher, maybe get yourself something nice while you’re there.

Galleria Quetzal

It’s not the biggest gallery in town, but as far as talent per square centimeter Quetzal’s gallery just off the Malecon might be unmatched. Explosively vivid pieces dominate the space, combining a rich perspective and irresistible inspiration with stunning technical skill to epitomize the skill set of which I am so incredibly envious…I even told him so myself in an interview.

The list of places to explore the vast expanses of human creativity in Puerto Vallarta are practically endless, including the Wednesday ArtWalk that starts up again in October and the bridge section of the Malecon, where area artists put on daily painting exhibitions. Still, if you find yourself breezing by one of these 10 gallery picks, do yourself a favor and indulge for a few minutes…your day will doubtless be richer for the decision.