Instuituto Allende - San Miguel de Allende

January 2016 - San Miguel de Allende Mexico

We visited this building several times on our stay in SMA.

The institute is a few blocks southwest of the town center. It is housed in a massive building that was originally erected as a country residence for the wealthy Canal family.The family of the Conde de Canal began building on the site in 1735. In 1809 it was sold to the Discalced Carmelite sisters. The art college occupies the rear of the complex and its gardens. The front has a commercial plaza with a café and several galleries.

The Instituto Allende is an independent, private, non-profit organization. The faculty and office staff all speak both English and Spanish. Students may take Spanish language classes. Practical courses are given in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, weaving, jewelry, photography, batik, lithography, paper making, etching, monotype printing, and silkscreen. The institute also gives classes on the history of art. Students may earn a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts and a Master's degree in Fine arts, both recognized by many universities in North America.

The first time was to see the murals. On the back wall there is a mural of Mexican history by David Leonardo. In the corner, find El Café, a cozy spot to stop.

The main mural is featured here.

Click here for more photos of murals.

We came back to attend the Arts and Crafts Show. 

Take the stairs in this passageway to the lower courtyard and discover one of the best views of town. On the way discover these stunning murals.

 Didn't I say stunning??

This venue is often used for wedding photo shoots.

Rather fun.

Back through the arches and another look at these murals.

Back amid the bustling craft show we spotted this gated room in the other far corner.