Postcard from Oaxaca, Mexico: Walls speak volumes about life and death and the politics in between

As usual, the abundance of street art photos snapped in Oaxaca this year required more than one post. The creators spare no punches in their commentaries about life or current affairs.

 

Postcard from Oaxaca, Mexico: Sky views

Staying somewhere with sweeping views of the sunset this year probably kept us focused that direction more often. But the skies above Oaxaca during January and February generally are pretty picture-perfect.

 

Postcards from Oaxaca, Mexico: Musical sounds all around

Music is everywhere in Oaxaca. Street performers park on the sidewalk, and wandering soloists and groups play for tips in the Zocalo. (If only they were forbidden from playing “My Way” ever again, particularly on the marimba….)

Dancers and brass bands booked for wedding celebrations are the norm every Saturday in front of Templo Santo Domingo and parading through the streets. Traditional jarocho bands perform regularly at Venadito Espacio Cultural.

An unusal addition to the sounds surrounding us this year was a musician who would show up most days at our extended breakfast time to practice classical pieces on the piano adjacent to our living area.

That, and the opportunity to hear a concert featuring Paul Cohen’s jazz group with an appearance by Lila Downs.

Leaving you with some snippets from celebrations in front of Santo Domingo.