In a city known for its art and thriving cultural scene, the Arts District of San Miguel is an especially significant center of local and international street art. Here, contemporary local and global street artists showcase their talents in a medium Mexico has always championed, the mural.
In this interview, Colleen Sorenson, a founder of the SMA Arts District, shares the story of how this beloved part of town came to be.
Help support the Arts District by taking the official Districto de Arte Walking Tour with Colleen. You'll weave your way through the intricate neighboorhood on the best route to see the murals, and hear the stories behind each piece. Plus, all proceeds directly go to support the yearly convergence of street artists from all over the world who are hosted by Muros en Blanco, to ensure the continuation of this essential part of local culture.
Jessica Antonelli is an award-winning art teacher from Galveston, Texas. Jessica graduated with a major in Art and a Masters in Education from Austin College, and taught art for five years in Texas public schools. She was awarded Teacher of the Year award at Galveston ISD in 2013 before excusing herself from the standardized-testing obsessed environment. That same year Jessica moved to San Miguel de Allende and began Studio Antonelli, where she's been offering seasonal classes in drawing and painting for adult students ever since.
Jessica now spends much of her time on Galveston Island, where she's the Garden Specialist at the non-profit, the Young Gardener's Program. Luckily, through the magic of the internet, she's able to be in two places at once by teaching Draw San Miguel as an online course year-round.
