A Creative Space in Alaró

Encaustic and shellac

I’m honoured to be invited to display some of my Black & White work in an incredibly creative space in Alaró called “The Alaro Beehive” at the end of the month. A friend of mine told me about this gallery in Alaró that is very popular for it’s upmarket art and crafts made by local artists. When I visited it I discovered it was a far cry from the “same old, same old” products found in the Mallorcan markets.

I’m not denigrating the local crafts by all means, after all there’s some great workmanship in Mallorca. Am I allowed to say that these days? Workwomanship doesn’t quite have the same ring to it. As for being gender neutral I’ve no idea how to word that one! I yearn for something imaginative after living on the island for many years and visiting many local markets. My family have had their fill of olive wood bread boards and honey spoons. I grew up with those white figurine pottery whistles and that’s quite a few years ago now. The same era as those Flamenco postcards with frilly material for their dresses. I still see those being sold. I can’t carry bottles of olive oil or Mortitx wine in my hand luggage any more much to my friends’ disappointment.

I suppose that’s partly why I started making things myself; I was looking for something original and transportable.

I’ve often walked through the picturesque village of Alaró on the way up to Castell d’Alaro and the famous Es Verger lamb restaurant. However I’ve never visited the Saturday market nor heard of The Alaro Beehive. So therefore off we went one sunny autumnal day to check them out.

The market was quietly bustling and the gallery full of people enjoying the artwork, crafts, food and coffee. Sadly I had to hurry home – very rarely would a broadband technician visit on a Saturday in a country when “mañana” very much means “mañana”. But I did meet a few of the friendly, talented artists involved in this creative space, including Katrin Kirk who’s space it is, Anja, Emily and Monica. I heard about the wonderful atmosphere and music of the previous night, listened to the appreciative comments around me and loved seeing some truly inspirational work. A treasure trove of original gifts and home decor.

The next opening for The Alaro Beehive is 30th November, 2018, from 19:00 – 22:00 and 1st November from 10:00 – 14:00. Further information can be found on Instagram #thealarobeehive and on FaceBook @thealarobeehive

I’m not only grateful for being able to show some of my work but for having the opportunity to meet like minded local artists who seem genuine and fun. The life of an artist can be quite lonely sometimes, despite social media, supportive friends and family, so I’m very much looking forward to the end of this month and, I hope, to see some familiar faces. Even if you’re super organised and done your Christmas shopping this will be a lovely venue to spend some time in and will certainly be friendlier than the donkey at Alaró Castle. See you there!