Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Last week, we reported that Emilio Rama would be exhibiting his latest art works at Galleria Dante as part of this week's South Side Shuffle. What we didn't tell you is that he'll be joined by artist Nicolas 'Nick' Gomez. Be sure to stop by and meet both artists, view their works, and enjoy complimentary cocktails on Friday, December 14 from 6:00-10:00 pm.

Born in 1969 in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Nicolas Gomez began working in General Carpentry, producing stretcher bars and frames for artists, at age 15. Through this contact he acquired learning that opened the way to the world of painting.

At age 24 he continued to acquire knowledge, reading a wide variety of art books and attending different museums in Mexico City. He basically started painting "self taught" in 1996, when he had his first show in Tlaquepaque. He was supported by, and later studied under, master painter Hilario Alvarez, a portrait painter who guided Nicolas to strive for perfection, something obvious in his detailed paintings.

Gomez painted exclusively for more than 4 years for the Riu Hotel chain of Mexico, creating works for the lobbies as well as their many hotel rooms. "Nick," as he is fondly called by friends, has painted more than 50 murals, most for the Italiannis Restaurant chain of Mexico. He loves to paint: marinas, landscapes, portraits and still life. His inspiration is the spirit of wanting to do things better and better, seeking perfection and satisfaction in his work.

Nick has owned his own studio for more than 20 years. He also acknowledges and thanks his wife Juanita Sanchez and his two daughters, 16-year-old Alison and 22-year-old Cindy. Cindy is now his top protégé, assisting him on large projects. She also assists him by making sketches and taking photographs for him.

There is nothing he can't paint, as is evident in his body of works. From still lifes of mandarins, squash, and other fruits and vegetables that come alive on the canvas, to portraits of children. From a portrait of a beautiful little girl or an old lady, to a landscape or an old building.

In September 2012, he participated in a show titled "Aromas on the Land" during the Patriotic Festivities. Nick's works are in collections in the United States, Canada, South America, as well as in many private homes and hotels in Mexico.

Nick is currently learning International Gastronomy and continues to study English. In his spare time he practices Fronton (a form of tennis) and general sports. His goal: to learn new painting styles - abstract, modernist, and perfect hyper-realism. He has the dream of having his own home, together with his wife and two daughters, in Puerto Vallarta. He likes to practice his English and loves meeting his admirers.

Don't miss your chance to meet this talented artist at Galleria Dante while you are out doing the South Side Shuffle this Friday.

While you are there, be sure to check out Di Vino Dante, a chic wine and tapas bar overlooking the gallery's sculpture garden that serves creative cuisine and cocktails. Last summer, Di Vino Dante opened a small dining area on the ground floor in a corner of Galleria Dante, for those who like to people watch. Please Note: Di Vino Dante does not take reservations on South Side Shuffle nights.