If the beauty of Samara Beach is not enough, now you can also explore the beauty of the local art galleries through a new art gallery walking tour featuring unique and creative artistic expression. The Samara & Carrillo Info Center, located across from Hotel Giada, will get you started on the free self-guided tour.
A stroll heading southeast along the beach past La Vela Latina and Locanda restaurants will lead you to Koss Art Gallery. A native Costa Rican, Jamie Koss gets his inspiration by observing children’s energy and reflecting on the beauty of life. He has been described as “friendly and chatty,” according to Anya Kerr, one of his employees. “He loves to talk about life and direction. He portrays the balance and pinnacle of focus in life through his artwork,” Kerr exclaimed. Koss’ artwork features colorful acrylic paintings full of the elements of culture and nature. His inspiration comes from classical music. Koss Art Gallery is open every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
As you mosey on back to the main street, take a right by the Gym and Samara Organics. Head up the street and on the right you will encounter Jardin de los Artistas. Nad Thiry, originally from France, owns this creative art studio. She describes her art as “new expressionism.” The gallery hosts shows open to the public on Thursday evenings around 8 p.m. There are also special events for children on Sundays. Thiry is starting painting classes for the public as well. Jardin de los Artistas also features the work of Shannon Reader and Pablo Leal Barrantes. Currently the gallery is open Thursday through Sunday.
Heading back to the main street next to Coco’s Mexican Restaurant, you will find Dragonfly. Leonardo Palacios' artwork is featured here along with other local artists.
Palacios is often working upstairs on his latest piece of art. His focus is traditional colorful paintings of humans and animals. He calls his paintings stories of my life.” The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Finally, to round out your tour, walk past Pali supermarket and before the bridge ascend the dirt road to the right leading to Studio Origin. Owner Maria Fernanda, a native of Colombia, says that she likes observing the multicultural variety here in this beautiful country. Her art features paintings, masks, murals, nature and impressionism. “I enjoy using many colors. I love to convey the energy of nature through the colors in my paintings.” Studio Origen business hours are Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 5:30 p.m.
Even if you are not an art lover, this art walking tour is refreshing and enlightening. It truly is a great way to spend a couple of leisure hours. Be sure to put on some comfortable shoes!
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Galeria Dragonfly |
