Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta’s ROMPE Arte Urbano Collective, founded in 2021 by local artists, academics, and residents, recently unveiled a project to create five murals across the city. Led by artist Sharo García, ROMPE aims to depict Puerto Vallarta’s history and identity, revitalize public spaces, and enhance the city’s image.
Originally envisioned as a festival, ROMPE’s success led to its transformation into a permanent collective. This year, between March and November, they will create murals addressing five important themes: cultural identity, gender equality, environmental protection, social inclusion, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
With municipal and business support, the project emphasizes art as a cultural ambassador. García highlights the use of researched content, drawing from materials provided by city chroniclers Carlos Munguía Fregoso and Juan Manuel Gómez Encarnación, to guide the artistic process.
The murals will showcase diverse themes. One will be the city’s first digital art mural, depicting local flora and fauna. Others will celebrate local customs, Jalisco’s opal mining history, Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ tourism scene, and actress Elizabeth Taylor’s impact on the city. Locations include the Child Development Assistance Center (CADI), a private house on Morelos Street, a jewelry store on the Malecón, and the Matamoros lighthouse.
In line with Mexico’s muralist tradition, ROMPE aims to use art for storytelling and social commentary. The project underscores the growing significance of street art in Puerto Vallarta as a medium to showcase the city’s distinctive character and rich heritage.