Puerto Vallarta Urban Art: Cuale River Island

In mid-2020, the section of the Cuale River Island where the cultural center is located underwent a major remodeling, which provides a more orderly space in harmony with the surroundings.

This first stage included the creation of a universal access ramp, with all the lighting in the entrance area replaced, concrete pathways laid, and the John Huston sculpture relocated to give it a more appropriate space. In addition, much of the furnishings (benches and containers) were changed, while the planters were remodeled, and some diseased trees were replaced by healthier ones.

Likewise, the pillars of the vehicular bridge located on Ignacio L. Vallarta Street (which connects the El Centro and Emiliano Zapata neighborhoods) were decorated in the unmistakable naïf style of painter Manuel Lepe. This work was done by Marcela Lepe (@marcela_lepe), his daughter and the custodian of the renowned Vallarta painter’s legacy, with the support of artist Luis Pérez.

Accompanied by the distinctive cherubs that characterize Manuel Lepe’s work, each of the 22 pillars shows a scene of daily life in the city, including the pilgrimages to the Virgin of Guadalupe, visitors on the beach and strollers on the Malecón, among others.