Claroscuro Gallery

How did this place come about and what made it different from the start?
Born in Mexico City and raised in Bolivia, where her parents are from, Jeannette Arevalo Angus is a leading professional in graphic design and communication, with a focus on the visual arts, particularly photography and drawing.

Curious about the culture of her birth country, she moved back to Mexico in 2018 and settled in Mexico City. It was there that the idea of opening a gallery took shape, a project through which she would build her career and create a unique space in the art world.

Shortly after arriving, the coronavirus pandemic prevented her from returning to Bolivia. During that time, isolated from family and friends, she made the most of the situation by exploring the global art scene online, with a special focus on Mexican art. Perhaps unknowingly, this period would plant the seed for the project that eventually became Claroscuro Gallery.

The gallery opened in September 2024 in the Roma neighborhood, known for its cafés, restaurants, and cultural offerings, as well as increasing gentrification. A year and a half later, after hosting 19 exhibitions, Claroscuro Gallery moved in October to a new location in the southern part of the city, where its two most recent photography exhibitions have been held.

What part of the day, space, or creative process do those who work here enjoy the most?
Every day is full of energy. As a team, we’re always looking to innovate and prepare for the next exhibition. We take what we’ve learned from each show —our interactions with artists, their work, and the visitors who connect with our space— and use it to keep enjoying what drives us. This connection is at the heart of why we keep returning to and building this space.

If someone is coming in for the first time, what should they not miss?
They shouldn’t miss any of the exhibitions, but above all, they should take a moment to enjoy the natural light that fills the gallery, the presence of plants, and the quiet atmosphere that makes the space feel a little “removed” from the city’s noise. It’s a place to pause, disconnect, and experience the art in a personal and reflective way.

What has been an interesting challenge that has made you rethink something about the project?
Life, art, and photography are fleeting. This project was born from —and continues to grow through— a concept of resilience. We see it as something ever-changing: adapting to the market and the goals we want to achieve, while keeping its core identity. Our challenge is to avoid monotony, and we put our heart and dedication into making the gallery grow and evolve.

What influence, idea, or reference continues to shape the way you work today?
For us, art is not about social class, status, or a “way of seeing life.” It’s about connection, about coming together. Every day, many artists, curators, and cultural spaces face the same challenge: the lack of interest from first-time gallery visitors. Our goal is to remove that barrier and show that art can be accessible and meaningful for everyone.

What place, project, or person has inspired you recently and why?
Many places, projects, and people continue to inspire us. Emerging platforms, art circuits, fairs, and open talks are all part of that inspiration. We admire those who take risks —financially, creatively, and organizationally— to strengthen cultural networks. They deserve admiration and support, and we want to contribute, collaborate, and keep building together.

If your space could invite someone to collaborate for a day, who would it be and what would you do together?
We have long admired Graciela Iturbide. We hope she will visit the gallery to collaborate; her vision and way of seeing life inspire us deeply. Graciela, if you’re reading this, we’re looking forward to welcoming you at Claroscuro.

Is there an object, corner or detail of the place that has a story that few people know?
One sculpture by Héctor Alvarado, —a drop of water carved in stone and marble— was the first artwork displayed in the gallery. It has stayed with us even after we moved to a new location. It’s a symbol, a reminder of how an idea became a tangible reality.

If this project were a city, a book, or a record, which would it be and why?
If it were a city, it would be La Paz, Bolivia, Jeannette’s hometown. If you want to know why, visit us from Thursday, January 22, and you’ll see.

If it were a book, it would be "Manifiesto de la moda en resistencia" by Mexican designer Carla Fernández, not only because of our admiration for her, but because the book contains lasting texts, images, and stories: “True luxury is that one person’s joy is not at the expense of another’s suffering. True luxury is organizing a generous and pleasant work system. Our notion of luxury is based on admiring the fine, delicate artistic richness that comes from the hands of artisans.”

And if it were an album, it would be Play by Moby. The reason is simple: just listen to it.