FOCUS ON ART
By Teresa Kendrick

     * A conference in the Baja several years ago served as a meeting ground for three strangers to cross paths who have now, following an exceptional sequence of events, united to create The Gathering Place, a teaching center, art gallery, bookstore, tea room and gift shop at Constitución 14 in Ajijic. Principals Isabelle Jolly and Karine Johnson, with jewelry artist Lauri Jenson as manager, opened last month what promises to be a vibrant province for the creative, intuitive, and energetic arts. 
Their official opening on Oct. 22 was initiated with a “Women of Wisdom” workshop led by Jolly. “We want to offer space to women to write, paint, meet, take courses, and embrace their intrinsic nature,” say Jolly. She is a healer and teacher versed in esoterics, and Johnson, experienced in teaching and writing, is well grounded in health, women’s history and women’s issues. The teaching center’s gallery space features art and artesanía from women artists working in a wide range of media, with the intent to form enduring ties to nearby collectives. 
     As well as offering space for women to congregate, The Gathering Place has a guest house, lending library, and specialty teas to enjoy or take home.  It is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day except Tuesday.

*(left to right) Isabelle Jolly, Karine Johnson, and Lauri Jenson of The Gathering Place, Constitución 14, Ajijic.