Güímar embraces open-air murals as a lure and cultural element. The initiative aims to promote art in the recreational, educational, and public spaces of the municipality. A group of artists has spearheaded the project that promotes suburban art within the Güím-ART project, driven by the Tourism department.
Mural Güímar is Young, created by Alba González Fernández. | | ED / Adrián Prado Fernández
The proposal emerged in 2019, when the current mayor, Gustavo Pérez – then Councilor of Commerce – commissioned the creation of the largest mural on the island, developed in El Puertito by the artist Sabotaje al Montaje. Since then, the Tourism Council, led by Haridian Martín, has continued to commission different artists with various themes.
So far, this open-air museum project features six artworks: an abstract mural on Rambla de Los Pescadores, created by Sabotaje al Montaje, in El Puertito de Güímar (2019); Las Mujeres del Quijote, also by Sabotaje Al Montaje, on Juan Álvarez Delgado Street (2021); a collaborative piece to promote interculturality, developed by Dúo Amazonas, at Terrero de Tasagaya (2022), sponsored by Cabildo de Tenerife and Mamachama; Güímar is Young (2023), a creation by Alba González Fernández on Juan Álvarez Delgado Street, and The Adventure of Knowledge, a piece by Roberto Rodríguez (RoRo) located on Honduras Street (2023-2024).
One of the most interesting features of Güím-ART is the integration of new technologies. The physical works in this project have incorporated QR codes to provide interested audiences with detailed information about each creation, the creative process behind each mural, and even interviews with the artists themselves. This integration of technology not only enhances the artistic experience but also facilitates access to information and encourages interaction with the public.
Collaborative mural to promote interculturality, developed by Dúo Amazonas. | | ED / Adrián Prado Fernández
Throughout this year, Mayor Gustavo Pérez intends for Güím-ART to continue growing and expanding. With this aim, the Tourism department plans to commission at least two more works from the artists involved in the project. This expansion will not only broaden its scope but also help consolidate Güímar as a suburban art hub of reference for creators of such works. Mayor Gustavo Pérez states that the new murals will focus on the primary sector and the traditions of Canary Islands.
Considering that these are ephemeral works, with an estimated lifespan of 10 years, the Council is also preparing a 10-year maintenance plan. Tourism Councilor Haridian Martín explains that the purpose of this plan is to ensure the longevity of the murals as much as possible.
