by Kristin Hahn

Mexico, France, Impressionism and Realism find True Love in Playa del Carmen!

I was invited to sit down with world renowned artist and teacher, Michel Brown Ledan, and his love and partner, artist and architect, Lourdes Ortiz Rubio. When I first arrived at their house I could feel the love permeate and the art radiate. This may sound sappy, but it is true. When you are in the company of these 2 incredibly talented people it is absolutely apparent how much they care for each other and how much they are living art, not just creating it.

Michel was born and raised in Paris, France, and as far back as he can remember he has been an artist. His Father was a painter and a sculptor so Michel has been exposed to art and creating art since the time he was born. He holds his father in high esteem and considers him to be his first teacher and influence. He has studied in Paris, France and Saint Petersburg, Russia, and has had multiple art exhibitions through out the world. The Russian government has even purchased 5 of his paintings to show permanently in the Saint Petersburg Museum. Although his primary technique is impressionism he is well rounded in all techniques and also specializes in Trompe- L’oiel (see description below).

Not only does Michel paint incredible creations, but he is also a teacher of his craft. He gives both individual and small group lessons (no more then 5 people) so other artists can learn from this incredible world traveler and master of art. Two years ago he had friends who lived here in Playa del Carmen who convinced him to come and visit, and he never left, and maybe this is the reason why…..

Lourdes Ortiz Rubio was born and raised in Mexico City and was originally trained as an architect. Although she still has passion for architecture and landscape architecture, oil and canvas has become her true life path. She considers herself a Realist and has a loyal following that enables her to make her living as an artist. She has had numerous shows through out Mexico and continues to broaden and expand her horizons as an artist. Last year she felt like she needed to come to Playa del Carmen and was not sure why, but now in retrospect, she knew she came here to meet Michel. They met only 9 short months ago at a local restaurant through mutual friends and that was it. They have been together ever since happily making art and love together.

If you are intersected in finding our more about upcoming art exhibits or lessons please contact:

Michel at: This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

Lourdes at: This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

What is Trompe- L'oiel?

Deceiving the eye with Trompe- L'oiel
"Fool me once, shame on you. fool me twice, shame on me"
This old adage expresses the quintessential essence of trompe l'oeil (tromp loy) art and murals. The French phrase translates as to trick, deceive or fool the eye and that is exactly what it should when executed with skill and artistry.