‘I can’t imaging getting better, more inspired instruction anywhere.
- Lynn H
An aerial view of San Miguel with its famous Paroquia and Jardin Allende.
Looking down one of the many beautiful cobblestone streets.
Stepping into San Miguel is like stepping back in time to old world beauty.
San Miguel de Allende Workshops
San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful, culturally diverse city of about 175,000 people, located in the state of Guanajuato. In the early to mid-twentieth century it was ‘discovered’ by foreign artists who moved there and developed an artistic culture around institutes such as Instituto Allende and Escuela de Bellas Artes. Since that time, art has been a central theme in San Miguel life.
The climate in San Miguel is very mild. There are many delicious restaurants and plenty of beautiful hotels and Airbnb's for lodging. And because of the vibrant art scene, there are literally dozens of art galleries in walking distance.
Jerry’s workshops take place at Estudio Paloma. On workshop days, there is no need to worry about lunch or travel logistics. Pick up and drop off between San Miguel city center and the studio, as well as a full, home-cooked lunch and wine are included in the price.
Twilight in San Miguel.
Are supplies included?
To make travel more convenient, artists essentially need to bring only their tools, paints, creativity, and enthusiasm. The following supplies are provided:
cold wax medium
solvents
Arches oil paper
painting surfaces (Multimedia Artboard)
paper towels
waxed, non-stick, and other papers
texture materials, PanPastels, dry pigments, sand
palette paper
inks and other water-soluble media
and more!
Thinking of taking Jerry’s workshop? Make it happen, no matter the inconvenience, cost, or timing!
- Judy V
It was well thought out and more giving of experience and talent than any other workshop I have taken.
- Dana G
Getting to and around San Miguel
I recommend you fly into Leon (Guanajuato International Airport, BJX), which is about 60 miles from San Miguel or into Queretaro (also about 60 miles, QRO). From any of the airports you can take a cab or hire a car. There are shuttle/car services like BajioGo, whose services are reputable and have a solid track record. I use them when I go to/from the airport. I have some private drivers I can recommend if you are interested.
You can also fly into Mexico City, but that is about 160 miles away and a 3-hour trip by car to San Miguel.
Although you can rent a car and drive, having a car in SMA can be inconvenient with parking/traffic. It is easy to get around SMA via taxi and Uber. They are abundant and inexpensive.
Logding
The studio address is Paloma 11 La Luz, San Miguel de Allende, 37747 (the pink circle on the map).
Because daily transport to/from the workshop is included, you can book one of the many hotels or Airbnb’s in the city center and take advantage of the food, beauty, and culture of San Miguel.
Because people have different budgets and different tastes in the kinds of places they like to stay, I generally do not recommend any particular lodging. Click HERE and scroll down for some places that have worked with Estudio Paloma previously. Some offer discounts for artists taking workshops at Estudio Paloma. Make sure to mention Estudio Paloma.
If you would prefer to be walking distance to the workshop, Hotel Casa Primavera (the red circle) and some Airbnb’s in the area are options. However, unless you prefer a walking distance option, I recommend you stay in the city center (up and left of the red circle) and enjoy the local culture.
My home is a bit further out, located in the blue circle. I will be hosting our ‘meet and greet’ the night before the workshop starts.
What should you bring?
Each workshop has its own supply list which will be sent to you along with more detailed information 3 to 4 months prior to the workshop start date.
Click HERE for information about traveling with art supplies.
Can I ship my supplies to you? No. I cannot be responsible for receiving, picking up, holding, and customs issues related to your materials. If you choose to ship, that is something you will need to manage on your own.
How will I get my paintings home?
We will be working on surfaces varying among 9x12, 12x12, 12x16, 16x16, or 16x20, depending on what sizes you choose when you’re here. I recommend you bring two pieces of corrugated cardboard approximately 1 inch bigger than the largest size you plan on working with (e.g. 17x17 will accommodate a 16x16 inch painting). This will keep them protected during your travel.
Travel Insurance
I recommend that you purchase travel insurance to help cover the cost of flight, lodging, luggage, etc., should there be interruption or disruption of your travels. Your policy should also include health coverage. Medicare and many other insurance plans do not cover medical expenses or repatriation during international travel. Click HERE for basic information on travel insurance.