Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Avila.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am the Artistic Director and co-founder of the Latin American Art Fair. I was born and raised in Mexico where I studied Fine Arts at the University of Monterrey and in the Netherlands where I studied for my Master Degree in Museology. Overall, I spent eight years traveling and living in different countries such as Japan, Spain, France, and Switzerland; always seeking a way to get closer to the world of arts and culture.
I inadvertently became something of an ambassador of Mexican culture everywhere I went, as people always asked me about Mexico and its amazing history and traditions. I made my home in San Diego, having moved here with my two daughters, Nathalia and Valentina; because I find it to be a place that overflows with beauty. I immediately fell in love with the beach, the weather and its close proximity to my native country, Mexico.
Having made a career as a fine arts promoter and collector, my path brought me to meet Aida Valencia, who I later partnered with at Casa Valencia Gallery. Latin American Art Fair is one of many projects that this gallery brought to life. Latin American Art Fair was born of the need for art sites for Latin Artists to exhibit and sell their work to the American market. Besides fine art, the Fair also includes folk art, high-end design and Latin cuisine. The 2018 Fair is expecting approximately 70 artists on this its 4th event.
Although initially conceived as a Festival, the Latin American Art Fair transitioned into a fair as well recognized galleries and established artists reached out to us for an opportunity of being part of our event.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The largest obstacle to overcome was having a dream but no money or experience.
Another was trying to convince others that our idea had merit and was worth pursuing.
Although the road we have traveled has been long and difficult, we have reached a point where our attendance for our 2017 event was 8,000 in its third year.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Latin American Art Fair – what should we know?
Latin American Art Fair endeavors to be the connection between the gallery and the collector, presenting a young, innovative fair that seeks to build its concept from the needs of galleries, artists and collectors- always taking into consideration commitment, quality and innovation.
We seek to bring the best of Latin Culture and share it with our visitors so they may learn and gain a greater understanding of Latin art and cultural traditions.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I like to think that luck accompanies hard work and dedication to what you do. With that in mind, I would say that luck is on our side because ours is the first and only recognized Latin American art fair in San Diego.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.latinamericanartfairsd.com
- Email: latinamericanartfairsd@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latinamericanartfair/
Image Credit:
Manuel Cruces Camberos
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Gabriel Sanchez Viveros
November 16, 2018 at 1:19 am
Extraordinary article sdvoyager, I have the privilege to meet Gabriela Avila on the past LAAF 2018, her advice and knowledge was extraordinary to make of my participation a great and susexful experience.
Many thanks for what you do to promote understanding between the nations and for promote the beauty and heritage of the Latin American Countries and the good relationship with the USA.
I am sure LAAF 2019 it will be a great event.
Jesse Arzate
November 16, 2018 at 10:56 pm
I had the privilege to attend the Latin American Art Fair this past October and I must say that I was completely taken by surprise by the extraordinary quality of the art presented. For me, it was truly an educational experience that taught me a different way to view and interpret art. Never before had I been moved or made to feel “uneasy” by a particular piece, in fact I most likely would typically have laughed at the type of comment I just made. But truly, things seemed to figuratively move and even pounce upon taking in a certain piece. I suppose that, more than anything, the Latin American Art Fair taught me a completely new way to view and even consider things. I once heard the following quote: “Art exists because the world is not enough.” After attending the Latin American Art Fair, I can say that I finally understand what that means and I am looking forward to the next fair with great anticipation. Bravo Gaby and LAAF!