Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In a vibrant celebration of Puerto Vallarta’s rich history and cultural heritage, an artistic mural depicting the iconic Elizabeth Taylor was inaugurated on Wednesday. This mural, located next to the lighthouse on Matamoros Street in the Centro neighborhood, is a creation of the multidisciplinary collective ROMPE. The artwork honors Taylor, a legendary figure who played a significant role in bringing international attention to Puerto Vallarta.
The primary goal of this mural is to foster local and international art, while also contributing to the construction of the social fabric. It celebrates both the historical and contemporary essence of Puerto Vallarta, intertwining its storied past with its dynamic present.
Sharo García, director of ROMPE and the artist behind the Elizabeth Taylor mural, shared that this is the fourth mural in their ongoing project, with the call for the fifth already issued. García expressed gratitude for the support received from educational institutions, businesses, and numerous volunteers. Taylor, who lived intermittently in Puerto Vallarta from 1963 to 1989, was known for her generous donations to the municipality.
The inauguration ceremony was led by interim mayor Francisco José Martínez Gil. In the presence of Jorge Islas López, Consul General of Mexico in New York, Martínez Gil highlighted the collaborative efforts to rejuvenate the city’s historic spaces through art. He emphasized that these efforts reflect the human quality of Vallarta’s people, a key attraction for millions of visitors annually.
“I feel so proud of you as you have no idea, because it is so nice that a few minutes ago I had the opportunity to speak with the Consul about the human quality of our citizens. In this way he can carry in his heart a little piece of Puerto Vallarta, of what we Vallartans are, of what he boasted so much about. Congratulations on this beautiful mural,” remarked Mayor Martínez Gil.
Consul Jorge Islas underscored Puerto Vallarta’s growing cultural influence in New York, describing it as a window for promoting Mexican traditions. He lauded the mural for encapsulating the essence of Taylor and Richard Burton’s affection for Vallarta, attributing their fondness to the city’s people, traditions, culinary delights, and now, its enduring artistic tribute.
Christian Preciado Cázares, Director of Tourism and Economic Development, noted the involvement of various City Hall agencies in the project, contributing to the rehabilitation, lighting, and painting of public spaces. “It is very important because in this way we are rescuing the history and roots of Puerto Vallarta,” he said.
Juan Manuel Gómez Encarnación, the City’s Chronicler, praised the project for enriching the urban landscape and commemorating significant historical moments. He delineated Puerto Vallarta’s history into three distinct phases: its founding in 1851 through the Mexican Revolution, its agricultural era until the 1960s, and its current stage as a prominent tourist destination.
Engineer José de Jesús Palacios Bernal, president of the Citizen Council of the Historic Center, commended the exceptional work in revitalizing the urban space at the foot of Matamoros Street. He highlighted the significance of the lighthouse located there, alongside the one on the Malecón, both crucial for sailors entering the port.
The ceremony was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries, including Eugenia López Ventura, president of the Municipal DIF System; Architect Abel Villa; municipal councilors and officials; business leaders; and other notable guests. The mural stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Elizabeth Taylor and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - In a vibrant celebration of Puerto Vallarta's rich history and cultural heritage, an artistic mural depicting the iconic Elizabeth Taylor was inaugurated on Wednesday. This mural, located next to the lighthouse on Matamoros Street in the Centro neighborhood, is a creation of the multidisciplinary collective ROMPE. The artwork honors Taylor, a legendary figure who played a significant role in bringing international attention to Puerto Vallarta.
