Domingo Del Arte, an art fair in the open, is a monthly forum for Ibiza artists to display their creations in an informal manner. Initiated by the Art Club in 2003, and originally called Noche del Arte, it offers painters, sculptors and photographers an outdoor showcase of what is being created on the island. In its original format and under its old name, it took place solely at Las Dalias but since 2008 the location has changed each month throughout the season and tonight, it is the turn of Santa Gertrudis to host Domingo Del Arte.
Santa Gertrudis is a quaint, almost sleepy village in the centre of Ibiza, home to numerous amazing eateries and a place to find many of the island’s creative types, with cool boutiques spread throughout the small village. The main square or Placa de L’Esglesia, is the focal point for activity in Santa Gertrudis, on any night of the week it will be full of people, the atmosphere is warm and friendly, kids play in the square while adults sit around the many bars and restaurants debating the topic of the day. It’s typical of what goes on in countless Spanish villages, and Sunday is a particularly busy night, when everyone comes out, creating a real sense of community and more often than not you can find something going on, whether it be an exhibition or performance of sorts.
Tonight, it’s the turn on Domingo Del Arte, the art fair that showcases the work of the many talented artists living and creating in Ibiza. The square is buzzing, artwork of all shapes and sizes is set out around the edges as artists interact with their public, talking through their creations and tempting more than an odd buyer here and there. It’s Ibiza, so of course there is a DJ, set up in the middle of the square dropping some nice background music and adding to the festival atmosphere. All the bars and restaurants are full and there’s a real vibrant atmosphere. The weather helps of course but this sense of family and community is what many countries around the world strive for and something that comes naturally to the people of Spain. Santa Gertrudis might be typical of numerous Spanish villages but we can’t help feel that is has something magical about it. If you haven’t had a chance to visit yet, mark it at the top of your to do list. Domingo Del Arte returns on August 12 2012.
