mosaics in mexico 2021:

casa de los perros

February 1 - 7, 2021

Join Julie Richey & Ana Foncerrada in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Hosted by

CASA DE LA NOCHE & BORDELLO GALERIA

About the artists:

Julie Richey and Ana Foncerrada are longtime friends and mosaic artists who have completed many large-scale mosaic commissions individually and together. Julie is an award-winning Dallas-based artist with 26 years’ experience specializing in custom mosaic art for residential, commercial and sacred spaces. Ana’s home is in Mexico City, where she teaches mosaic classes and creates original jewelry designs incorporating her mosaic work. Both artists have studied and exhibited in international venues including the US, Italy, Belgium, Spain, Australia and the UK.

Ana and Julie so enjoy working together that they’ve created a way for other artists to experience the same esprit de corps and sense of achievement gained when a group works together toward a common goal. Their first co-teaching workshop was in Rome, Italy at the University of Dallas Due Santi campus, where the idea of creating workshops in Mexico was born.

Anado McLauchlin welcomes you to Casa de Las Ranas

Julie Richey, Anado McLauchlin & Ana Forcerrada

About the Site:

Our workshop takes place at Casa de Las Ranas, the internationally renowned home of “outsider artist” Anado McLauchlin and his husband, Richard Schultz. This extraordinary mosaic-covered compound has been featured in international media, art publications and documentaries. It’s consistently one of Travelocity’s “Top Ten” sites to see in San Miguel de Allende. See videos:

In 2016, Ana and Julie met with Anado and very quickly formed a bond based on a common appreciation for the joy of creating mosaic. This unique partnership and trust allows our team the exclusive opportunity to contribute our skills and vision to the elaborate designs that embellish the site.

About the workshop:

Our goal is to give participants a unique and enriching experience. Some of the things you’ll learn include:

Designing large-scale outdoor mosaics
Selection of suitable materials for mosaic
Cutting techniques and various tools to achieve the perfect tesserae
Andamento, that mysterious Italian word for creating movement, flow and
vibrancy in mosaics
The ABCs of thinset, mortar, grout, and surface preparation

WHAT TO EXPECT

Schedule:

March 9: After you arrive and check in, we’ll host a welcome gathering. It’s part orientation, part get-to-know-ya dinner.

March 10 - 14: Workshop/Instruction days.

We begin each day with a lovely breakfast on the veranda at Casa de La Noche. Our private transport will depart at 8:30 to La Cieneguita, just outside San Miguel proper, to Casa de Las Ranas.

We’ll provide work space, mosaic materials, and all the supplies you need to create the work. You just bring your favorite tile nippers and mosaic tweezers. Basic designs and a theme are determined by Anado, but we artists then take over and create our “vision” of the theme. We’ll provide the expert instruction, and offer guidance and support. We work as teams, where each day you may be contributing on a different element or area of the overall project. This way, everyone gets to hone their skills in multiple areas.

We break for lunch between 12:30 - 1:30. Lunches are delicious and healthy, catered fresh daily by Ana’s niece and served in the garden. Dietary restrictions can be easily accommodated if you give advance notice.

We wrap up around 3 p.m., but sometimes folks have been known to beg for a bit more time to finish, so the departure sometimes is staggered in groups. The transport will bring you back to Casa de La Noche. From there, you’re free to relax back at the B & B, explore, shop, visit local museums, or enjoy the view of the city from one of the many rooftop terraces, cocktail in hand! Your evenings are free to explore area restaurants.

On our last day at Casa de Las Ranas, we’ll celebrate our achievements with a toast, words of thanks and lots of group selfies. That evening, we’ll invite everyone to a closing dinner at our favorite San Miguel restaurant.

Other Afternoon Activities our participants enjoy:

A walking tour of the street art murals in the Guadalupe neighborhood
A shopping trip to the Mercado de Artesanias
Tour of the Bellas Artes academy and gallery
Rooftop drinks at sunset
An after dinner stroll through the Jardin - the best people watching!

We often gather after dinner to share a bottle of wine (or tequila!), talk shop, and share photos.

TOURS and ACTIVITIES

This is also an invitation to experience the magic of San Miguel de Allende, the most artistic city in Mexico, recently named by Conde Nast “2018 Best City in the World” for a second year running. Students are encouraged to book a few extra days to walk romantic stone walkways and cobblestoned streets, to explore the history and culture of old Mexico, and to savor fine international dining and local Mexican favorites.

Be sure to visit the unique Fabrica Aurora complex of art galleries, see other galleries, visit a nearby archeological site or explore more of the many possibilities in the area, either before or after the workshop. Check with Casa de la Noche for availability.

Comments from participants:

“I had a fantastic time soaking up the great vibes at Casa de las Ranas working on whimsical portraits of loving and loyal dogs who have crossed the rainbow bridge. The other participants were fun, creative and hard working. Julie and Ana organized a marvelous experience for all of us.” – Elizabeth

“Best week of my life in a long time. I’m lost without my nippers and a sense of purpose and I miss all of you. A supreme pleasure!!!” - Albert

"I had no experience with Mosaics before this trip, but I am an artist with an aptitude for new things. I felt right at home and welcomed into a group with varying skills including professionals at the top of their game. Very inclusive and fun experience. Made some lifelong new friends! Some might think the price tag for this trip is high.... but for what you get out of it (and what you can put in to it) to leave a lasting piece of your handiwork in a world-renowned artist's space...I felt it was well-worth the price in the end. Having your lodging, two catered meals a day and transport included was nice not to worry about.” -Marni

"This is the one mosaic "vacation" I can not do without. Collaborating with Anado at the extraordinary Casa de las Ranas, leaving a piece of my handiwork behind in that amazing mosaic environment and working closely with a like-minded group of artists is a combination that always gets my creative juices flowing. The beautiful, mystical Mexican town of San Miguel de Allende and making new lifelong friends is the icing on the cake." - Nancie Mills Pipgras mosaicartnow.com

"There is so much pure, positive energy flowing through these fabulous creations--from both the loved pups being memorialized here and the artists who obviously enjoyed working on this project. The collaboration and camaraderie resulting from the workshop was the best! I had a blast!” - Arlene

“There was great balance of work and fun with plenty of time to recharge. I learned how to create large scale mosaics!!! So exciting.” - Julie P

OUR WORKSHOP is held in the famous

old San Miguel bordello - CASA DE LA NOCHE

Participants choose their own room, first come, first served.

You may share a room with another artist for an additional fee or invite a non-workshop spouse or friend to share your room at no additional fee. Cost is dependent upon room choice, and if you share your room with another workshop participant. Our Casa has its own art studio, spacious gardens and grounds, guest kitchen, superb location, and original art throughout the property. To learn more about historic Casa de la Noche, check the website: www.casadelanoche.com

HOW TO GET HERE

San Miguel de Allende is in the heart of Mexico at 6200 ft elevation. The closest airports are Leon (BJX) or Queretero (QRO) and shuttles or private transportation can be arranged to meet and drive you to Casa de la Noche, a 75-minute drive. You can also fly into Mexico City, a 3 1/2 or 4-hour bus or shuttle ride.

You will need a current Passport and a Visa (available at the airport upon arrival). Consider travel insurance in case your plans change. Some credit cards offer this as part of their perks! Check yours!

The ATMs in San Miguel accept VISA DEBIT cards for access to Mexican pesos.

TO JOIN US

Registration is open now and ends January 31, 2019. Space is limited so don’t wait! A $300 deposit for your room selection holds your preferred room at Casa de la Noche. Click on the PayPal button associated with the room of your choice. Final payments are due January 31st and can be paid by check to JULIE RICHEY MOSAICS, 1005 Haines Avenue,Dallas, Texas 75208. Please note “Mosaics in Mexico 2020 ” on the memo line of your check.

EARLY BIRD RESERVATION BONUS: Register for your room before June 1, 2019, and receive a FREE roundtrip airport shuttle from BJX (Leon airport) or QRO (Queretaro airport) to Casa de la Noche!

Cancellation Policy. Refunds. Deposits. Because of limited accommodations, deposits are refundable only until 4 months prior to this event. Refund requests after this date will not be granted unless the workshop fills completely. All deposit refunds are subject to a $75 processing fee. Payment of the balance is due 30-days prior to arrival. If the workshop is cancelled by Julie Richey Mosaics and Tours you will be refunded all monies you have paid to date. We encourage you to purchase travel insurance that will cover your expenses in case your plans change.

If you have any workshop questions, please contact Julie Richey at julierichey@mac.com. Our multi-level boutique hotel does not have an elevator. If you have concerns about your ability to negotiate steps, please let us know so we can help you choose your accommodation. If you have any lodging questions please contact Barbara at Casa de la Noche (info@casadelanoche.com; or call 831-373-8888). Rooms are available on a first-come, first-choice, basis.

EACH ROOM IS UNIQUE! YOU CHOOSE FROM SUITES, LUXURY OR DELUXE ROOMS, OR EXPERIENCE AN ORIGINAL “WORKING GIRL” ACCOMMODATION

Please make your room selections below. Pricing includes lodging and all workshop fees!

All fourteen rooms are individually decorated and all have private baths. Some have kitchenettes, separate sitting areas, TVs, fireplaces, gardens, patios or terraces, and all have access to light cooking facilities and common living areas. Our main common rooms have in-floor heating and all accommodations have electric or gas heaters, fans or air conditioning. All water is purified and WiFi is located throughout the property. Healthy start, home-cooked Mexican breakfasts are included with your lodging.

For those wishing to share accommodations with another workshop participant, the base room charge includes one workshop and is paid by the main registrant. A $1400 workshop fee for the second attendee will be billed separately by Julie Richey Mosaics. Final payments are due October 31, 2019.

SUITES and workshop for one - $2750.00

(Room rate includes daily breakfast, workshop fees, access to art studio, our excursions and all taxes. Additional workshop fee for a second Suite guest is $1400.00)

All suites have kitchenettes, cable television, air conditioning and private en-suite baths.

LA TERRAZA SUITE Reserve now!

This one-bedroom air-conditioned suite has its own plant-filled terrace along with outdoor seating for two. The hand-painted tile kitchenette has many windows with a pretty view, counter seating, and a sitting area with a couch, coffee table and tow chairs. Cable TV is in the living area. There is a private bath with shower. Two twin beds can be made into a king if preferred. To reserve La Terraza Suite use the PayPal button here:

LA VISTA SUITE Reserve now!

This third story studio air-conditioned apartment has an open floor plan which includes a kitchenette, table and two chairs, an Equipali couch and chair, and cable TV. A closet separates the king bed (may also be 2 twins) from the main space. There is a private bath with shower. At the rear there are French doors to a second flower-filled terrace with a table and seating for two. For the view-lovers, there is a steep stair to the top-level terrace with 360 degree views. To reserve the La Vista Suite, use the PayPal button here:

MADAM’S SUITE Reserve now!

This one-bedroom air-conditioned apartment has the largest living space with a couch and 2 comfortable chairs facing a large fireplace. The living space also has dining table and seating for 4 as well as a writing desk and cable TV. A talavera-tiled kitchenette has all the basics. The bedroom has a walk-in closet and private tub with overhead shower. Twin beds easily convert to a king-size bed. To reserve Madam's Suite, use the PayPal button here.

PALOMA LOFT SUITE Available!

The air-conditioned Paloma Loft is on the second floor of the Besitos Garden complex and has a balcony overlooking the garden courtyard. In addition to a small bath with shower, it also has a mini-kitchen and access to an open terrace and enclosed atelier. The Paloma can be rented with two twin beds or one king size bed. This room connects to the open-air meeting space which can be used for art, yoga, dance or other workshops. To reserve Paloma Loft Suite, use the PayPal button here:

LUXURY ROOMS and workshop for one - $2600.00

(Room rate includes daily breakfast, workshop fees, art studio, our excursions and all taxes. Additional workshop fee for a second Luxury Room guest is $1400.00)

Our luxury rooms are distinguished by their size or special amenities. Each is unique and special! There is a large shared sala and kitchen.

FIRST KISS ROOM Reserve now!

The First Kiss room has a queen-size bed, with antique armoire and original art and has an en-suite bathroom with a tub and shower. It has a view of the distant hills and a glorious jacaranda tree from the bath and bedroom windows. To reserve First Kiss use the PayPal button here:

KISS ME AGAIN ROOM Julie and Ana are here!

The Kiss Me Again air-conditioned room overlooks the bordello’s original dancing pavilion and may be made up as twin beds or one king bed. It has a working gas fireplace and hand-painted tiles in the en-suite bath with shower. Original art, high beamed ceilings, and a delightful view contribute to a charming experience. To reserve Kiss Me Again use the Paypal button here:

LA TURCA’S ROOM Reserve now!

The owner’s former quarters, La Turca’s Suite has a Queen-size bed, with antique armoire and original art from well-known Mexican and American painters adorning the walls. It also features an en-suite bathroom with a tub, double sinks and separate shower. It has a beautiful stained-glass window in the bathroom that affords light and privacy. The bedroom has an ornamental fireplace, seating for two, and a small table. Wi-Fi, cable TV, purified water, small fridge, microwave, and in-floor heating keep this room always comfortable. The location is secluded from other rooms, offering extra privacy and a view of the fountain patio. To reserve La Turca’s, use the PayPal button here:

DELUXE ROOMS and workshop for one - $2420.00

(Room rate includes daily breakfast, workshop fees, art studio, our excursions and all taxes. Additional workshop fee for a second Deluxe Room Guest is $1400.00)
These charming Mexican style accommodations all have access to a common kitchen and sala area with fireplace, cable TV, and wireless internet making a perfect accommodation for friendly guest gatherings. All are situated around a secluded, pretty garden.

HUMMINGBIRD ROOM Reserve now!

The Hummingbird air-conditioned room is a king or twin-bedded room that faces out into the garden. It has a private bath with tiled shower. Santa Fe styling and original art give this ground floor room a nice flair. To reserve Hummingbird Room, use the PayPal button here:

MARIPOSA ROOM Reserve now!

The Mariposa room, with its large arched windows facing the Garden, is perfect for an artist or nature lover. It may be made up as a king or two twin beds and a private bath with shower. It is located on the ground floor across from the Besitos Garden Kitchen and Sala. To reserve Mariposa room, use the PayPal button here:

DRAGONFLY ROOM Reserve now!

The Dragonfly air-conditioned room faces out into the courtyard and has 2 twin beds or one king and private en-suite bathroom with Mexican-tiled bathtub and overhead shower. It is adjacent to the Besitos Garden Kitchen and Sala. To reserve Dragonfly room, use the PayPal button here:

WORKING GIRL ROOMS and workshop for one - $2240.00

Recommended for single occupancy. (Room rates includes daily breakfast, workshop fees, art studio, our excursions, and all taxes)

There are four cozy rooms in the main guest house, each with its own personality, that were once actually used by the working girls of the Bordello. There is a small efficiency kitchen area nearby as well as a common patio area and living areas.

JOVITA ROOM Reserve now!

The Jovita air-conditioned room is cozy with lots of light and a pleasing view. It has a queen bed with carved headboard, extra shelving and a small chair. It has a private bath with shower, and an electric fireplace for cozy nights. A nearby covered outside sitting area has a wicker couch and chairs and unusual ceremonial masks on the wall. This room has easy access to the Project Room and terrace. To reserve Jovita room, use the PayPal button here:

CHIQUITA ROOM Reserve now!

Chiquita room is the first of four “working girl” rooms, each with its own personality. This is a cozy room near the main dining room. It has very high ceilings and a queen-size bed. There is a small gas fireplace, and chair and small table, as well as en-suite bath with shower. Nearby, there is a garden sitting area and fountain. To reserve Chiquita, use the PayPal button here:

PEPITA ROOM Reserve now!

The Pepita room is a cozy space with a queen-size bed, ½ stone wall, ½ antique tiled wall, and a hand painted desk and dresser combination and chair. It has a private bath with shower. Original Rubin Morales paintings are on the wall above an electric fireplace. Outside there is sitting alcove, also a nearby fountain. To reserve Pepita, use the PayPal button here:

ROSITA ROOM Reserve Now!

The Rosita Room features a queen size bed with carved headboard, dresser and a side chair. There is an outside patio area with seating for two. Access to the Group Project Room is up the nearby stairs. This little room was original to the house but is now updated with bath, shower and sitting alcove.

To reserve Rosita, use the PayPal button here: