A Trifecta

– an Architect Turned Aquarellist, the LCS Children’s Art Program, and the Sol y Luna Hotel/Gallery

There are many art shows in the Lakeside area. In fact, you can stumble on some just by walking the streets of Ajijic. There are times though, when the unusual happens… let me explain.

Our meeting was not an accident, but a guided occurrence. Ricardo Sánchez Corona surfaced on my radar, and, without any expectations, I took a quick look at the contents of his sketch book. I took a deep breath, then noticed a portfolio on the table next to where he was painting “en plein air.” After looking through it, a change in my perspective took place. Now I know with assurance, that this artist will change many lives through his work. He is energetic, full of grace, and unusually talented.

Let me briefly tell you about Ricardo, and why I call our encounter a trifecta.

He grew up working with his indigenous parents in the fields of Xochimilco south of Mexico City. He excelled at school, and earned the opportunity to study architecture at UNAM – one of the best public universities in Mexico. After finishing his studies, the COVID crisis struck. Not allowing even a moment of despair over the lack of work for architects, he became the agent of change in his life and career – an act which shows his courageous character. He began to paint. From his academic work, he understood perspective. In addition, he has a great sense of color, and a good eye. To these he adds an impeccable style. Watercolor (aquarella) became the chosen medium for him to express the content of his soul. He followed what inspired him, and, lo and behold, what he painted sold in no time. From architect to artist – his life had been transformed.

He has exhibited in various galleries in Mexico, and his paintings continue to sell. For Ricardo, “Watercolor is the ideal medium to express what the spirit cannot do through words. To every place I travel, I carry pigments, paper, and brushes since there will always be a place that awakens in me love and respect for this life.”

Last Fall, Ricardo and his partner visited Ajijic and discovered the Lake Chapala Society. Ricardo became aware of the LCS Children’s Art Program. His life took a turn, filled with new inspiration. I noticed how well he worked with children, and found out he had been a volunteer children’s art teacher for Casa Hogar in Morelia. LCS’s Danielle Pagé, the Gerante del Programa de Arte Para los Niños, saw an opportunity for him to help instruct the young people in the art program. When a child is inspired, the path to greatness has been started. A collaboration was spontaneously born.

An introduction to Oscar Valdes, the owner of Sol y Luna Hotel/Gallery, secured the date and time for a unique art exhibition. The idea for a fundraiser for the LCS Children’s Art Program was then proposed. A beautiful custom watercolor painting valued at $30,000 pesos was selected, and a raffle was decided upon. Tickets will be available at LCS and other Lakeside venues for $100 pesos each, or $900 pesos for 10.

The exhibition opening on April 5^th will be an event! There will be a live painting demonstration, accompanied by a truly talented and brilliant Cello virtuoso from Morelia.  Ricardo will present the collection he has created while traveling throughout Mexico, and, finally, the winner of the raffle will be drawn and announced.

Be prepared to take part in something truly unique and memorable on April 5, 2024 at 5:00 PM at Sol y Luna (Rio Bravo #10A in Ajijic).