Historian, Curator, and Advocate for Culture and Animals: Rafael Doctor Roncero in Puerto Vallarta

Feb. 13, 2024

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Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant cultural scene will shine even brighter this February 16th, 2024 with the opening of two innovative exhibitions at the Oficina de Proyectos Culturales (OPC) (Office of Cultural Projects). Titled Los Doscientos: hacia un coleccionismo alternativo e inclusivo (The Two Hundred: Toward an Alternative and Inclusive Collecting) and Monsters for Animals, these exhibitions promise to captivate residents and visitors alike with the brilliant creativity and social activism of renowned art historian, writer, and curator Rafael Doctor Roncero.

Recently, the Vallarta Lifestyles editorial team had the privilege of an exclusive interview with Rafael Doctor Roncero, during which he kindly and contagiously shared fascinating details about both exhibitions. In an enriching dialogue, he revealed the inspirations behind Los Doscientos and Monsters for Animals, as well as his deep commitment to the dissemination of art and the protection of animals.

Los Doscientos:
Redefining Artistic Collectivism

In the Barlow Room at OPC, Los Doscientos unfolds—a fascinating exploration of contemporary collecting and art democratization. This initiative challenges conventions by featuring a series of 200 works created by an international guest artist (which can be photographs, paintings, collages, interventions, etc.), reproduced in a book of which only 200 copies are printed. Each copy is accompanied by one of the original works, given to each of the 200 members who annually make a financial contribution to make this edition possible, with the aim of motivating an alternative and inclusive form of collecting.

Since the inception of this project, 38 books have been printed, and some of the internationally renowned artists who have participated in Los Doscientos include Aitor Saraiba, Ana de Alvear, Ana Locking, Bernard Plossu, Cristina de Middel, Cristina Lucas, Cristina Toledo, Enrique Marty, Federico Granell, Felicidad Moreno, Felipe Romero and Marius Scarlat, Guillermo Martín Bermejo, Javi al Cuadrado, Jorge Galindo, Julio Falagan, Manuel Antonio Domínguez, Mari Rosa Aránega, María Cañas, María Moldes and María Esmith, Olga Albescu, Pierre Gonnord, Ruth Gómez, Sandra Paula Fernández and Santiago Ydañez, among others.

Monsters for Animals:
Art with Compassion

In the William Hobi Room at OPC, Monsters for Animals emerges—an exhibition with a noble and touching purpose: to support animal rescue in Puerto Vallarta. In this collective initiative, photographic and contemporary art images are intervened to give rise to original works.

This time, the donations from the sale of these pieces will contribute to the valuable work of organizations such as The SULA Society and Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals, which provide shelter, medical care, and love to animals in need.

Rafael Doctor Roncero:
A Legacy of Commitment and Creativity

Rafael Doctor Roncero, the man behind these inspiring exhibitions, brings a wealth of experience and passion for art. Born in Calzada de Calatrava, Ciudad Real, Spain, Doctor Roncero inspires with his work as a historian, writer, and curator.

From his prominent direction of the Espacio Uno at the Reina Sofía National Museum Center of Art in Madrid and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Castilla y León, Doctor Roncero has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the dissemination and enrichment of culture.

Recognized in 2003 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Medal of Civil Merit for his contribution to the expansion of Spanish culture, Doctor Roncero continues to inspire through his editorial and curatorial work, as well as through his dedication to animal activism.

Oficina de Proyectos Culturales:
A Beacon of Creativity

OPC is a beacon of creativity and dialogue in Puerto Vallarta. This independent, nonprofit organization is dedicated to fostering reflection and connection through art in all its forms.

Thanks to the generosity of the Barlow family and the continued support of individuals like William Hobi, OPC has cultivated a space where artists, curators, and thinkers can gather to exchange ideas and enrich the cultural experience of the community.