In a global context marked by contrasts and tensions, art and design are consolidating themselves as a universal language, capable of building bridges between cultures. Under this premise, Vórtice – Artesana & Design, a new cultural and design space located in La Jolla, California, was inaugurated, dedicated to promoting contemporary Mexican art and fostering creative dialogue between both sides of the border.
Vórtice – Artesana & Design was born as a collaborative project that transcends the traditional notion of a gallery. Conceived as a binational platform, the space seeks to showcase and promote the work of Mexican artists, designers, and artisans —particularly from the border region— while also integrating creators from San Diego and Southern California, generating an authentic and contemporary cultural exchange.
The project is a natural extension of the work Vórtice has developed from its original location in “La Cacho”, a neighborhood in Tijuana, where it has established itself as a meeting point for art, design, and interior design with a Mexican identity.
“Vórtice is a space to showcase Mexican artists and creatives, especially from Tijuana, and now also for artists from San Diego. The most important thing for us is identity. We want our visitors to recognize themselves in this shared culture and in a binational vision of design and art,” said Cindy Jiménez, creative director of Vórtice.
Marian Toscano, the driving force behind this new cultural space, emphasized that with this opening, residents of La Jolla and Southern California will have the opportunity to explore Mexican art from a curated and contemporary perspective.
“This space allows people to engage with the work of established artists, designers, and artisans from both sides of the border, and to understand the cultural and aesthetic value behind each piece,” she noted.
The inaugural exhibition of Vórtice – Artesana & Design features the participation of visual artist Alejandra Phelts, who presents a selection from her renowned “Mujeres Pájaro” (Bird Women) collection, which includes paintings and installation art. For this collaboration, the artist expands her creative universe into a home collection, transforming everyday objects and utensils into artistic pieces that engage with contemporary domestic life.
“For me, it is essential to collaborate with projects that promote Mexican art and crafts, especially when there is an awareness of sustainable production,” commented Phelts. “Vórtice is a space where the public knows they will find unique or limited-edition pieces, with certification and a clear concept. This adds value both to the art, and to those who acquire it.”
The inaugural exhibition is complemented by the participation of San Diego-based artist Álvaro Álvarez, as well as artists Alejandra Dueñas and LeslieLes, among other local creatives, reinforcing the collaborative and cross-border nature of the project.
“Vortice is a space where interior design solutions and a carefully curated art collection converge. It’s a platform to showcase and promote all the valuable work being created in both Mexico and the United States,” concluded Cindy Jiménez.
Located at 504 Nautilus Street, La Jolla, California, Vortice – Artesana & Design opened on Monday, January 19, 2026, with the attendance of artists, collaborators, and members of the local community. The space is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
For design inquiries and personalized appointments, those interested can contact +1 (858) 203-3938 or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok: @vorticeartesanadesign.
