Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – This summer, the scenic French village of Les Verneys, located in Valloire Galibier, was the site of the 14th International Hay and Straw Sculpture Competition. This event, one of Europe’s premier outdoor art competitions, showcased the incredible talent of artists from around the world. Among them, a team from Mexico stood out and brought home several prestigious awards.
The competition gathered 12 international teams, each tasked with transforming natural materials like hay, straw, and wood into monumental sculptures. Using up to 600 kg of hay and 400 kg of straw, the artists worked for nearly six days to create impressive works, some reaching heights of up to six meters. Their creations will remain on the Plateau des Verneys until All Saints’ Day, drawing visitors from across Europe.
Puerto Vallarta’s own Francisco Calvillo and fellow Mexican sculptor Carlos Miguel Ramírez Pereyra captivated both the judges and the public with their entry, Rêve de liberté (Dream of Freedom), a powerful work blending imagination, technique, and cultural expression.
The Mexican team’s positive spirit and enthusiasm throughout the competition were as noteworthy as their sculpture. Their efforts were rewarded with three significant honors:
Young Public Award (Prix jeune public)
Audience Award (Prix du public)
Second Jury Prize (2ème prix du jury)
Calvillo, a familiar figure to Puerto Vallarta visitors for his striking sand sculptures along the city’s Malecón since 2008, brought the same passion and artistry to France. Together, the duo not only showcased Mexico’s creative excellence but also strengthened Puerto Vallarta’s reputation as a destination where art thrives beyond borders.
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