J. Salvador “Sal” López began capturing the participants of the Mariachi Extravaganza in drawings prior to covid when he and artist Ally Hernandez, and graphic designer Christopher Hernandez, collaborated on a mariachi-themed coloring book. The coloring book inspired Salvador to continue creating images depicting the dynamism of mariachi traditions in contemporary culture. Salvador captures the essence of mariachi music in intricate drawings detailing outfits and instrumentation, along with the poise and personalities of hundreds of young artist who convene in San Antonio annually for the Mariachi Extravaganza. He begins each piece of art by sketching images by hand and then transitioning art pieces to a digital format. The art exhibit includes 38 illustrations that are part of a collection of more than 400 variations of Salvador’s original sketches of young artists and participants of the music festival.

An opening reception will be held Friday, November 17 from 5:30 pm – 8 pm. A social performance by UTSA’s Mariachi ensemble will be from 6:30 pm – 7 pm. The exhibit runs November 17 – December 9, 2023 at the Russell Hill Rogers Lecture Hall at the Southwest UTSA Campus at 1201 Navarro St.

La Pasión Mariachi Art Exhibit is one of a dozen of events taking place as part of the 29th Annual Mariachi Extravaganza November 30 – December 2, 2023. The National Mariachi Group and Vocal Competitions are event highlights along with the original songwriting competition. The Mariachi Extravaganza Concert on Saturday, December 2 is the big event featuring competition winners and, from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán.

Log on to mariachimusic.com for a complete schedule.

Click here for Concert Ticket information.