Southside Shuffle

We enjoyed the "Southside Shuffle" last night, touring local galleries on Basilio Badillo, listening to street bands and mingling in the crowds. Starting at Galleria Dante, we wound our way through their labyrinth of gallery rooms, into a sculpture garden and past a huge exhibition of various artistic styles.

The Gallery was overwhelming because of the quantity and quality but there are always rare surprises hidden in corners. An opening night reception celebrated the mosaic works of Nina Di Giovanni and the abstract paintings of Jean-Gabriel Lambert. Both artists were Canadian born.

From here we discovered Ambos Galeria and explored their upper floor with its unique hand carved desk from a single piece of tree trunk. Display cases exhibited beautiful ceramics for sale by Mexican artisans...very tempting!

Across the street we entered the Contempo gallery for the opening reception of Alfonso Pena's latest works. Upstairs we discovered several engraved steel silhouettes by Luis Espiridion. These were definitely the highlight of our tour. Unfortunately the photos did not transfer to the computer!

Down the street we shared a tasty dinner at Cafe de Olla before wandering up to Garbo's for a nightcap. The bars were overflowing with intoxicated tourists trying to be heard over loud music! It was definitely time to head home!!