Galleria Atotonilco: Why It Is a Must In San Miguel de Allende
Galeria Atotonilco, founded in 2006, is widely regarded as the finest folk art gallery in all of Mexico. Many visitors call it the highlight of their trip to San Miguel, and it is Trip Advisor’s #1 choice of “things to do” based on traveler reviews. The variety of works on display is dazzling, and each piece is a jaw dropper. In its 6,000 square foot showroom, you’ll see ceramics, baskets, lacquer, copper, wood carvings, masks, colonial-era and country antiques, textiles, vintage photographs, folk paintings, and jewelry including hard-to-find vintage pieces from Taxco. The gallery also represents world-famous contemporary ceramic artist Gustavo Pérez, whose work is spectacular.
“Without doubt, the finest exhibition and sale of Mexican popular arts in the country.” - Alberto Ruy Sanchez Editor, Artes de Mexico
The owner, Mayer Shacter, is passionate about supporting talented artists and their families and about preserving the rich folk art traditions that are so distinctive to Mexico and that are deeply rooted in pre-Hispanic history. Photographs of the artists are presented with each piece. Mayer and his wife Susan travel all over Mexico, meet the artists, and buy the finest works they can find. A former ceramic artist himself, Mayer has a seasoned eye for quality. He is impressively knowledgeable with fascinating stories and surprising information about folk art in general and about each piece, and he freely shares all this information.
Gallery Setting
The gallery is located on a lush country property, five miles north of San Miguel. The galley building and the home of the owners were built by renowned architects Steven and Cathi House and have been featured in four design magazines, five books, and an episode of “Extreme Homes.”
To Visit the Gallery
The gallery is five miles north of the town of San Miguel de Allende. It is open by appointment, so you must phone before you come. DO NOT leave this until the end of your stay. Make your appointment early in your visit to avoid disappointment. Call 415-153-5365 or 415-185-2225. Or e-mail ahead of your visit: mshacter@mac.com. -- Leave an hour and a half for your visit. You will not want to feel rushed. There is a gorgeous country restaurant next door to the gallery, a World Heritage Site church a mile from the gallery, and thermal hot springs nearby. All are nice to visit if you want to make it a day.
On-line Store
The Gallery’s on-line store is open 24/7 and accessible from anywhere in the world, with click-and-buy convenience and free shipping. Go to galeriaatotonilcostore.com.