In 2003, Becky and Che Guerra
celebrated the fifth anniversary of their art gallery, Nuevo Santander. Located
in the Olde Towne area of McAllen
at the corner of Hackberry and Main streets, the gallery
has become something of a regional landmark. Spanish conquistador José de
Escandón colonized southern Texas
and northern Mexico
in the 18th century and called the region Nuevo Santander. The Guerras named
their gallery in honor of his discovered land. "We wanted a historic
representation of that period in this region," Becky Guerra says.
The warmth and charm of the building's Spanish colonial style provides an
elegant setting for the many artifacts that tell the story of life on the Rio
Grande and the colonial Mexico
border. The entryway's 150-year-old doors and Mexican ironwork add authenticity
to the building. The stonework in the gallery is caliche caprock mined locally,
and native mesquite wood is used for interior floors and doors. Tile and
stained glass add to the feeling of elegance and tranquility, and a special
lighting system adds to the ambience.
Artworks are not limited to the Spanish colonial period, although it is well
represented. Traditional realism is the theme of the gallery with original oil,
pastel and watercolor paintings. A venue for local artists, with the works of
five on exhibit at any given time, the gallery is also host to national and
international art with works by artists past and present. The Old West is well
represented with a collection of vintage saddles, spurs and antique guns.
Mexican collectibles include currency and coins, sombreros and medals. There
also are Spanish colonial collectibles.
Numerous special exhibits are held at Nuevo Santander during the year, ranging
from photography and wildlife art to an "artist at work" event. Guerra spends
most of her time in the gallery's office and with the couple's three children.
Husband Che is often on the road searching out Western collectibles from
private estates in Mexico
and across the United States.
Both are active in their community and take pride in sharing its history
through their gallery. The community has received us with great enthusiasm and
support," Guerra says. "When locals have company visiting, they bring them here
as one of the sights to see. Whether it's a person visiting their first gallery
or an experienced collector discovering something that captures their heart,
it's a pleasure to share the experience.
