The Children’s Art Program

Since 1954 when it was started by Neill James, The Children’s Art Program has engaged thousands of Mexican children in exploration of their creative talents. The Program has produced many well-known local artists and helped to position Ajijic as an art colony. The mural honors the Program and the three women who enriched the lives of so many young Mexicans.

Neill James, (center) a writer and philanthropist from the United States, began sponsoring instruction and educational support for Mexican children that same year. Under her direction, many students were able to pursue a fine arts education. She started one of Mexico’s first public libraries where children were encouraged to read and paint.

Angelita Aldana Padilla (left) of Ajijic taught reading and art in the Biblioteca Publica started by Neill James. She served the children for nearly 30 years.

Mildred Boyd (right) a 25 year resident of Lakeside from the United States, rejuvenated the Children’s art Program under the auspices of the Lake Chapala Society in 1990 and continued to lead and expand the program until 2010.

The mural is made possible through a generous donation from the Ajijic Society of the Arts (ASA) and the creative collaboration and time of Ajijic artists, Jesus Lopez Vega and Javier Zaragoza. Many thanks to everyone who has helped to make the LCS Children’s Arts Program a continued success.

Dedicated on March 3, 2012, the mural celebrates the many Ajijic artists who got their start in the Children’s Art Program and inspires the children who will continue to come to the art patio every Saturday morning.