Meet Francisco Flores, a wood sculptor from Masaya. Flores rarely starts a piece with an exact idea in mind. Instead, he lets the shades and shape of the wood guide his creativity. His go-with-the-flow strategy works well for him, and his creativity has already earned him two first place finishes in the National Artisanry Competition (2008 and 2009). In addition to crafting exquisite wooden sculptures and fixtures, Flores is currently preparing to tackle a second career in law. A brilliant sculpture and future lawyer, Flores is just one of many multi-talented local artists whose one-of-a-kind work will be featured in Pacaya Lodge & Spa.
These pieces of precious wood from Artesanias Kandy by Francisco Flores will soon become overhead lighting at Pacaya Lodge & Spa
To date, Pacaya Lodge & Spa has worked closely with a network of 16 local artisans (10 of whom live in La Meseta) to create all of the furniture, fixtures, and art on display in the lodge. Tables, chairs, wall art, hammocks, and just about everything in between are sourced from nearby artists. The artists’ outstanding craftwork is hard to miss and is definitely one of the highlights for guests.
Incorporating local artwork into the lodge is one of the ways Pacaya hopes to provide a sense of culture and place for visitors. Another major goal of the initiative is to offer local artists the opportunity to showcase their work and make global connections. This mutually beneficial relationship between visitors and locals is something that Pacaya Lodge & Spa has already begun to foster and hopes to continue to grow over time.
In addition to this goal, every piece of art displayed in the resort is meant to share a story about the area and the artist who designed it. Many of the artists who are featured in the hotel come from humble backgrounds and all continue to run their businesses out of their homes. These artisans are proud to show off their work and teach others about their craft. While some struggle to find raw materials and new equipment to keep their businesses running, the artists continue to find new and innovative ways to refine their work.
Here’s Pedro Guererro, working on a home-built foot-powered pottery wheel. Who needs new technology?
Hearing their philosophies and learning how they approach their craft has been especially enlightening. World-renowned local San Juan de Oriente artist, José Ortiz Bracamonte, is responsible for this blog’s title quote: “Colors are like money, to be invested wisely or wastefully.” He was referring to the small dabs of gray in the painting below, and how they add context and a depth to the work, but his words speak to a much greater theme.
Color is something to invest in! Culture, color, and artwork are all extremely important for supporting local development and fostering genuine connections. The integration of color and culture in a visitor’s experience lays the ground for more meaningful interactions and cross-cultural discussions.
Wall art from José Ortiz Bracamonte
All of the artists are excited to share their incredible artwork and grow their businesses in the coming years. Their ultimate hope is to pass on their trade to the next generation of Nicaraguans.
Pacaya Lodge & Spa couldn’t be more proud to be partnered with these outstanding artists. Check back soon to see in-depth profiles of all of the individual artists featured in the lodge. These profiles will be available both online and in the in-room magazine for guests. Also, stay tuned for the launch our signature the artisan tour, which will give guests the opportunity to meet the more wonderful artists in Masaya and Pueblos Blancos.
