Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — Puerto Morelos has launched its first International Painting Symposium, “Colors of the Caribbean,” bringing together artists from nine countries to create works inspired by the region’s natural and cultural landmarks.
The event, which runs through June 29, features 10 artists, three of whom hold dual nationality. Participants include Stano Cerny (Slovakia), Manuela Mandic (Croatia), Jesse Magge (United States/Germany), Rose Wong (China/London), Manolo Oyonarte (Spain), Wu Tianyi (China), Nike Nagy (Hungary/France), Özlem Gök (Turkey), Kristina Mészároš (Slovakia), Lalo Sánchez del Valle (Mexico), and organizer Daniela Jáuregui (Mexico).
Speaking on behalf of Mayor Blanca Merari Tziu Muñoz, Sustainable Tourism Secretary Karina Vázquez Díaz highlighted the symposium’s role in strengthening the destination’s cultural identity. “This symposium represents a great opportunity to show the world that Puerto Morelos stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural and artistic richness,” she said.
During the opening ceremony, César Santiago, director of the Puerto Morelos Cultural Center and Museum, welcomed the artists, acknowledging their willingness to share their talent and draw inspiration from the municipality’s natural, historical, and cultural wealth.
Project coordinator Daniela Jáuregui introduced the artists, who will create works inspired by iconic local landmarks such as the Leaning Lighthouse, the Mesoamerican Reef, mangroves, jungle, cenotes, and regional biodiversity.
The inaugural program included presentations by the artists, who shared their backgrounds and artistic visions with the public. Authorities, artists, and special guests later participated in a cultural exchange event, with music provided by the Trio Jarocho de la Caravana Cultural led by Luis Felipe Luna Farías.
The symposium aims to leave a lasting legacy of artwork that enriches the community’s artistic heritage and promotes Puerto Morelos as a creative and culturally vibrant destination.
