Vallarta Dancers by Jim Demetro (Malecon II, Downtown Puerto Vallarta)
Summary
- Vallarta Dancers is a bronze sculpture created by Jim Demetro in 2006, located along Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón.
- The sculpture features a couple in traditional dress performing a regional dance, capturing the flair and spirit of Mexico.
- Demetro has said it was most challenging work to date.
- Vallarta Dancers is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, and is a must-see for art enthusiasts visiting the area.
Introduction
Vallarta Dancers sculpture by Jim Demetro, inspired by the folk dance troupe Xiutla
“Vallarta Dancers” by Jim Demetro highlights the Mexican Hat Dance. Demetro loves to sculpt in honor of the many colorful traditions of Puerto Vallarta so they can be remembered for all time.
Jim is a hard-working artist, very active both creating sculptures and also investing a lot of effort in financing them. He is now one the artists with most sculptures in town, including the “burro” at Lazaro Cardenas Park and Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton at Casa Kimberly.
Inspiration
Adding to the innumerable statues and sculptures in Puerto Vallarta, one that catches the eye is Jim Demetro’s dancing figures, the movement, the size, and the colors all make it very special. It is also one, if not the, most photographed sculpture in town.
Jim Demetro, a US artist, was first inspired to create this impressive sculpture in the year 2000 when he witnessed the Xiutla dance troupe performing the “Jarabe Tapatío” (Mexican Hat Dance) on the Malecon, under the direction of their instructor and choreographer Professor Enrique Barrios Limón.
“I have studied the performances, pictures, and videos of the Xiutla dancers and have worked closely with Professor Barrios to create an authentic portrayal of the dance. The realistic aspects are important to me. Mainly though, I have been focused on commemorating the artistic beauty Mexicans in Puerto Vallarta are known for.
Most of us who live here in Mexico are Mexican at heart, if not truly Mexican. The artistic beauty around us draws our community together. It inspires the best from us all. And I truly hope artistic beauty will always be a part of this town.” (source).
About the sculpture/statue
Featuring a couple in traditional dress performing a regional dance with the flair and spirit this country is known for, Demetro says it is his most challenging work to date. Since seeing these wonderful young dancers at the Los Arcos amphitheater, he knew this was how he could best honor the Mexican culture he loves. And, he thought, what better place for people to view it than on the Malecon, which already has some amazing public art and is the reason he and his wife, Eva, came to Puerto Vallarta in the first place.
The figures are life-size, cast in bronze and are unique when compared to all other statues in town for their colored patina.
Location
The sculpture was unveiled on the extension of the Malecon, called Malecon II, in downtown Puerto Vallarta on November 28th, 2006.
About the sculptor: Jim Demetro
Jim Demetro with the model of The Fishermen sculpture
Jim Demetro is from Battle Ground in Washington state. Since 1992, he has worked sculpting professionally and has produced nearly 50 works of public art.
During his 13 years living in Puerto Vallarta, he has donated a number of public sculptures to his favorite city including these iconic Vallarta Dancers on the Malecon, one in front of Molino de Agua condos, The washerwoman, The Fishermen on Los Muertos Beach, Ándale Bernardo (the donkey statue) at Lázaro Cárdenas Square and other statues around town.
Artist Gallery Website: http://demetro.net/
Other sculptures in Puerto Vallarta
Author: M. A. Gallardo
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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