All about Nahualli Art Gallery in Mérida, Mexico

Walking into the Nahualli Art Gallery, I immediately felt the charm of its beautifully restored colonial house, located right in the heart of Mérida, opposite the Parroquia de Santa Ana. The building itself carries history. It was, according to the family, once an orphanage and was transformed in 2005 into a welcoming space for art lovers.

The name "Nahualli" - a word from pre-Hispanic Mexico - stands for the hidden, the occult and the deep inside. And when you look at the works of art, you will quickly realize that the name is well chosen...

A family of artists

Nahualli is more than just an art gallery; it is the home and creative space of a family of talented artists, Melba Medina, Abel Vásquez, and their daughter Aura Meztli. Together, they blend their personal styles and inspirations into a wonderful collection.

Their works are steeped in Mexican mythology, drawing from Aztec, Mayan, and other indigenous cultures, creating a fusion of tradition and contemporary art. But alongside their creations, the gallery also showcases the work of other artists.

Whether in the gallery's cozy interior or on its terrace, you can feel the vibrant energy of creativity. Nahualli has established itself as one of Mérida’s most important cultural hubs, participating in art fairs and collaborating with museums both locally and internationally.

Art to admire and acquire

As I walked through the gallery, I found myself appreciating the variety of techniques on display, including acrylics, oils, mixed media, watercolors, sculptures, and more. The bronze sculptures, in particular, hold a special appeal for me.

Each piece tells a story. The gallery offers all works for sale, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand us-dollars. If you’re considering purchasing a piece, I recommend taking the opportunity to meet the artists themselves.

History and modernity

The restored colonial house adds a unique layer to the gallery experience. Its homely atmosphere makes it easy to take your time and appreciate the artwork.

Nahualli blends history and mythology naturally into its modern art. Sculptures and drawings inspired by Mexican myths create a deeply cultural yet contemporary aesthetic that I found absolutely captivating.

The gallery has also an active presence on Facebook and its website, where you can explore an online shop and blog. It’s a good way to stay connected and learn more about the artists and to get an initial overview of the art.

Other galleries

If you are in Mérida, visiting the Nahualli Art Gallery is an experience I truly recommend. It offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Mexican culture through art and history - and most importantly, the family is genuinely warm and welcoming.

But the area also boasts other inspiring art galleries worth visiting. Other well-known art galleries in Mérida include La Sala Art Gallery, Galeria La Eskalera, Galeria Mérida, Soho Galleries, or Lux Perpetua Art Centre, all waiting to be discovered by you.