Living Galleries

Living galleries offer a unique and immersive art experience. These dynamic spaces allow visitors to witness the creative process firsthand, as working artists invite them into their studios. Rather than simply observing finished pieces, attendees can engage with the artists, learning about their techniques and inspirations. This behind-the-scenes access fosters a deeper appreciation for the art form. Living galleries transform the traditional exhibition model, blending artistic production and public viewing to create an unforgettable cultural experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about the creative process, these vibrant hubs promise to captivate and inspire.

Good To Know

1. Enjoy Quito’s vibrant urban art scene through visits to artists’ studios and a local gallery.
2. Discover the stories and creative processes behind captivating artworks during intimate interactions with local and foreign artists.
3. Enhance your cultural experience by tasting Ecuadorian specialties, including local cocktails and chocolate, during the tour.
4. Explore the captivating 19th-century architecture and city views at the starting point, the Contemporary Art Center of Quito.
5. Enjoy a personalized and engaging experience with a small group of up to 6 travelers, starting at 2:30 PM.

Tour Overview

The Living Galleries tour in Quito, Ecuador provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s vibrant urban art scene.

This 5-star rated experience takes visitors on a journey through Quito’s artistic landscape, showcasing the work of local and international artists. Priced from $75, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours and offers a maximum group size of 6 travelers.

Highlights include visiting artists’ studios, admiring a local gallery, and enjoying local cocktails and chocolate tasting.

The tour starts at the Contemporary Art Center of Quito and ends at the Spacio Cultural Quito, with free admission to the art center.

Highly praised for its knowledgeable guide and unique features, the Living Galleries tour is a must-do for art enthusiasts visiting Quito.

Tour Highlights

Explore Quito’s vibrant urban art scene on this immersive tour, featuring the works of local and foreign artists.

You’ll visit artists’ studios, admire a local gallery, and enjoy local cocktails and chocolate tasting.

The tour highlights include:

• Exploring Quito’s thriving urban art scene
• Visiting artists’ studios and a local gallery
• Indulging in local cocktails and chocolate tasting

With a maximum group size of 6 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, starting at 2:30 PM.

Prepare to be immersed in the city’s creative energy and uncover the stories behind the captivating artworks.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the Living Galleries tour is at the Contemporary Art Center of Quito, located at Montevideo y, Luis Dávila, Quito 170103, Ecuador.

From there, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Quito’s urban art scene, visiting artists’ studios and a local gallery.

The tour concludes at Spacio Cultural Quito, located at Luis Felipe Borja N15-166 y, Quito 170403, Ecuador.

The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, and the maximum group size is 6 travelers.

Participants can expect to experience local cocktails and chocolate tasting as part of the tour.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect to start their tour at the Contemporary Art Center of Quito, where they’ll enjoy city views and admire the 19th-century architecture.

The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, and admission to the art center is free. Accessibility is limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

The tour includes:

• Stops for beverages and unique artist features
• A visit to a local gallery
• A chocolate tasting experience

The maximum group size is 6 travelers, and the maximum waiting time is 15 minutes.

Highly recommended by previous participants, this tour offers an immersive exploration of Quito’s vibrant urban art scene.

Traveler Experience

How do previous travelers rate the Living Galleries tour?

Based on 5 glowing 5-star reviews, the tour seems to be a hit with participants. The guide, Santiago, is praised for his knowledge and pacing. The stops for beverages and unique artist features are also highlights.

The tour is highly recommended by those who’ve experienced it. The small group size of 6 travelers or fewer ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

With a duration of approximately 4 hours, the Living Galleries tour offers an immersive exploration of Quito’s vibrant urban art scene.

Exploring Quito’s Art Scene

Quito’s urban art scene offers travelers a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. The "Living Galleries" tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s thriving artistic landscape.

Highlights include:

• Exploring artists’ studios and admiring their work in a local gallery
• Savoring local cocktails and indulging in a chocolate tasting
• Experiencing the captivating 19th-century architecture and sweeping city views at the Centro de Arte Contemporaneo

With a maximum group size of 6 and a duration of approximately 4 hours, this tour provides an intimate and personalized encounter with Quito’s creative heart.

Highly recommended by past participants, the tour allows travelers to enjoy the city’s dynamic art scene.

Visiting Artists’ Studios

One of the highlights of the "Living Galleries" tour is the opportunity to visit artists’ studios. Tourists get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the creative processes of local and foreign artists. They’ll witness the artists at work, learn about their inspirations and techniques, and even have the chance to purchase unique pieces directly from the source. This hands-on experience offers a deeper appreciation for the vibrant art scene in Quito. To further showcase the diversity of the city’s creatives, the tour includes a visit to a local gallery, where guests can admire a range of captivating works.

Artist	Medium	Featured Pieces	Availability
Juan	Painting	Vibrant urban landscapes	Limited inventory
Mariana	Sculpture	Whimsical wire figures	Accepting commissions
Tomas	Printmaking	Bold, conceptual prints	Few remaining in stock
Gabriela	Ceramics	Intricate, functional pottery	Ready for immediate purchase

Tasting Local Beverages

Another highlight of the "Living Galleries" tour is the opportunity to taste local beverages.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of Ecuadorian specialties, including:

• Canelazo – a warm, spiced cider made with cinnamon, citrus, and rum
• Mora – a refreshing blackberry juice, often served with sparkling water
• Horchata – a creamy, rice-based drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla

These regional sips complement the artistic experiences, providing a well-rounded culture.

The tour guides lead participants through the tasting, sharing insights into the beverages’ histories and flavors.

This interactive element adds to the overall sense of discovery and delight on the "Living Galleries" excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not mention any age restrictions, so it’s likely open to all ages. Travelers of all ages can likely participate, though those with young children may want to confirm suitability with the tour provider beforehand.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, travelers are encouraged to take photos during the Living Galleries tour. The tour highlights local artwork, artist studios, and galleries, so capturing these visuals is a great way to remember the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour description doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. The tour is approximately 4 hours long, and the start time is fixed at 2:30 PM. Extending the tour may not be possible without making special arrangements with the tour operator.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring any special equipment for this tour. The tour is designed to be accessible and comfortable, with no specialized gear required. Just come prepared to explore Quito’s vibrant art scene.

Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour. Participants can dress comfortably in casual clothing. The focus is on exploring Quito’s art scene, so practical attire that allows easy movement is recommended.

The Sum Up

Exploring Quito’s vibrant living galleries offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s thriving art scene. Visitors can engage directly with talented local artists, witness the creative process, and savor the flavors of Ecuadorian beverages. This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the artistic work and the community that sustains it, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.