Opening Cocktail, Sunday, May 26th, 2024, 12 pm

From May 26th to June 22nd, 10 am to 4 pm

Ancha de San Antonio #20

San Miguel de Allende, Gto

An immersive journey into the rich tapestry of Mexican nature as seen through the eyes of Dutch artists Jasper De Gelder and Rotterdam Eddy Kaijser. Collaborating for several years, they present a joint installation that encapsulates the essence of Mexico's diverse landscapes, both above and below its waters.

With this Dutch exhibition, we aim to showcase the significance of Dutch art and the contributions of different generations of Dutch artists in Mexico—a fact often underestimated in the Netherlands, as affirmed by the Dutch embassy.

The exhibition revolves around the theme of Mexican nature, exploring its wonders on land and beneath the waves, through the unique perspectives of two Dutch artists. Situated amidst Mexico's vast terrain, ranging from deserts and mountains to lush rainforests and breathtaking oceans teeming with life, Mexico stands as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Even within the bustling metropolis of Mexico City and its surroundings, nature thrives abundantly. Our exhibition, titled "Aketzalli - Precious Water: A Dutch Perspective on Mexican Nature," seeks to illuminate this vibrant tapestry.

"Aketzalli" is a Nahuatl term, the language spoken by the ancient inhabitants of Mexico prior to the Spanish colonization. Still spoken today by over 1.5 million people, Nahuatl is characterized by its profound connection to nature, hence our choice of title. Many cities and landmarks in Mexico bear Nahuatl names, and words we know in Dutch, such as avocado, tomato, and chocolate, originate from Nahuatl.

Through their artwork, the participating artists offer their unique interpretations of the concept of Mexican nature, while also shedding light on the enduring presence of Dutch individuals in Mexico throughout history.