In an effort to celebrate and safeguard Yucatán’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, an upcoming event in Mérida will bridge the past and present, highlighting the invaluable legacy of modernist design. This comprehensive event aims not only to showcase international, national, and local contributions to modernism but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and revitalizing historically significant neighborhoods within the city.
A Journey from Modernism
The exhibition invites visitors on an immersive journey through the evolution of modernist architecture on global, national, and local stages. The groundbreaking works of iconic figures such as Mies van der Rohe, Richard Neutra, and Le Corbusier will be featured to provide context for modernism’s global impact. The narrative then shifts to Mexico, spotlighting influential architects like Luis Barragán, who infused modernist ideals with a distinct Mexican essence.
Locally, the exhibition celebrates Yucatán’s own modernist pioneers—Fernando García Ponce, Félix Meiriterán, Fernando López, and Fernando Rohe, an innovative engineer whose contributions left a lasting mark on Mérida’s urban landscape. These visionaries shaped the neighborhoods of Colonia México, Itzimná, and Alcalá Martín, which today stand as testaments to the elegance and function of mid-20th-century design.
Cultivating Future Generations
Central to the event is its collaborative spirit. Students from architecture, interior design, and graphic design disciplines participated in a three-month workshop, gaining deep insights into modernist architecture and urban revitalization. Through workshops held every Saturday and Tuesday, they conducted research and developed creative projects that highlighted the importance of preserving the city’s character.
Their work culminates in an exhibition showcasing blueprints, photographs, and conceptual design proposals. These proposals include visionary ideas for reinvigorating Mérida’s mid-century neighborhoods, focusing on enhancing existing infrastructure, adding thoughtful lighting and landscaping, and revitalizing parks. The goal is to demonstrate how nurturing what already exists within the city limits can prevent harmful urban sprawl, which often leads to deforestation and environmental strain.
A Celebration of Culture
Set in the Degasés art showroom, the exhibition offers an experience akin to a museum visit, complete with large-scale displays and engaging content. Kicking off at 5 p.m., the event will be inaugurated by Mayor Cecilia Leviada Patron, whose commitment to sustainable urban growth resonates with the event’s mission to emphasize revitalization over unchecked development.
Lectures by esteemed speakers will follow, including Miquel Adrià, a leading architectural critic and editor of Arquine, known for his expertise on modernist influence in Mexico. His insights will delve into how figures like Le Corbusier shaped the architectural landscape and the lessons we can draw from their philosophies. Also Felipe Leal who is the ex director of the Faculty of Architecture of the UNAM will be speaking.
A Vibrant Community Event
The event transcends architecture, appealing to the broader public with four specially curated corners featuring 1950s-era cars, period art exhibits supported by local artists and the Makai collective, vintage fashion, and mid-century furniture. Attendees can explore these displays while enjoying a relaxed lounge area with wine, snacks, and music. This setup creates a welcoming atmosphere where people can socialize, learn, and appreciate design as a part of everyday life.
A Call for Awareness and Action
Beyond showcasing modernist treasures, the event has a deeper purpose—to inspire a collective consciousness about the importance of preserving Mérida’s cultural and architectural heritage. The emphasis on established neighborhoods like Colonia México, Itzimná, and Alcalá Martín underscores a broader message: the need to cherish and improve existing urban spaces rather than expanding indiscriminately, which often results in environmental harm and the loss of green spaces.
Supporting a Greater Cause
Aligned with its commitment to community well-being, all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to AMANC (Asociación Mexicana de Ayuda a Niños con Cáncer) to support children battling cancer. This philanthropic aspect underlines how cultural and artistic initiatives can have a meaningful social impact, marrying heritage preservation with altruism.
Event Details
Running from 5 p.m. to approximately 11 p.m., the event offers ample time for exploration and interaction. Tickets are priced at 1,000 pesos for adults and 800 pesos for students, with combo packages available for multi-day attendance. All proceeds will go to AMANC. They can be purchased at local venues and through university networks, making it easy for the community to participate.
Where to get tickets?
Tickets also available at the door.
By celebrating modernist architecture and advocating for its preservation, this event invites Mérida’s residents to rediscover the city’s rich design heritage and take pride in its historical and cultural assets. It is a reminder that revitalizing and nurturing what we already have is not just beneficial but essential for sustainable growth and a vibrant urban future.
