Muros Cultural Center

The Muros is a tiny jewel with a world class collection of art. Their Contemporary Mexican works are strong and they have the Gelman collection of Mexican artwork which is extraordinary. The 2nd largest collection of works by Frida Kahlo shares space with 1st rate works by Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, and Chucho Reyes. The name Muros -wall - refers to wall murals salvaged from the ruins of a former chi chi hotel that now line the walls and ceiling of one gallery. Currently the murals surround a photo exhibit of Gaudi buildings. The effect was perfect, a bit like being in a Gaudi space- overwhelming.

The site of the Museum, a Costco, and a Comercial Mexicana, was the former Casino de la Selva. The bar at the hotel was where Malcolm Lawry penned "Under the Volcano". The demolition of the selva and the hotel initially caused rioting. What started out as a public relations nightmare was solved by Costco listening to the community and creatively solving cultural issues.

Check out the story of Costco's commitment to art and ecology in Mexico.