Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The 11th season of the very popular (and free!) Malecón Sculpture Walking Tour, created and conducted by Galería Pacifico owner Gary Thompson, is underway and will continue through the middle of April.

This free tour begins every Tuesday morning at 9:30 in front of the "Millennium" sculpture, next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecón in downtown Puerto Vallarta. There, sculptor Sr. Fernando Baños (also known as Mathis Lidice) usually starts the tour off by explaining the history, the making, and the details on this towering figure.

Afterwards, Gary leads the tour along the Malecón, explaining the artist and history behind about 15 art works. He also points out minute details that you might have otherwise missed, giving you a deeper understanding of the significance of each sculpture. Gary's personal experiences and interactions with the sculptors, as well as his numerous personal friendships with many of Vallarta's other artists, make the walk both entertaining and educational.

Another treat along the way is Kevin Simpson, of Colectika and Peyote People art galleries, explaining the numerous Huichol symbols that are etched into the Malecón's pavement.

The walking tour takes about two hours, before ending at Galería Pacifico on Aldama Street, where sculptor Jim Demetro is usually available to discuss his sculptures, Dancers of Vallarta, Woman Washing Clothes, and Andale Bernardo. As well, he is always happy to explain the complex wax process he still uses to create his sculptures in bronze.

A representative of the Los Mangos Public Library will also be present to explain their many activities and will provide a no pressure opportunity to make a donation to this worthy cause. Last year's sculpture tours raised $56,860 pesos for Los Mangos.

No reservations are needed for these free tours, but more information is available by calling Galería Pacifico at 222-1982 or emailing GaleriaPacifico(at)gmail.com.