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| From María Sántiz Nuñez, Chiapas |
Feria board member Gay Perez-Vargas studied law and works as a Legal Translator appointed by the Jalisco Supreme Court. She has lived most of her life in Guadalajara and is the youngest of six children. She is married with two great children and spends almost every weekend in Chapala, which she loves.
While Gay has been around folk art all her life, she was introduced to the Feria through the Chapala Yacht Club. She was prompted to join the board when she realized that artisans would be able to sell their work directly to folk art lovers without paying an intermediary.
Hosting: a priceless experience
“I love the idea that the people who buy the art also learn the stories and artisans of every piece," she states. "Another wonderful and unique part of the Feria is that local people can become hosts to the artisans. It is just a priceless experience.”
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| From Juan Toribio from Oaxaca |
Gay describes the Feria as a three-day party where people get involved for different reasons, but wind up being united by a common goal: the folk art, artisans, and Mexico’s culture. “Each Feria is special,” she states, “and every year it gets better and better!”
She remembers the opening of last year’s Feria when a mariachi band played as the long line of attendees entered the grounds. “It was very emotional to see all the people who would be enjoying a whole year of the artisan's work! Tears came to my eyes.”
While Gay loves all forms of folk art, she confesses, “Blouses are my vice. I get a few each year, and other little things here and there."
Any one who would like to host please contact me at quierobrenda@gmail.com. I am still in need of 8 hosts to accommodate some wonderful artists. It is a great way to get involved, meet the artisans and support your community.
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