James Goodreau and Kevin Pawlak, avid collectors of vintage Mexican folk art, describe their move from Phoenix to Tucson over a decade ago as a fortuitous “blessing.” This relocation marked the beginning of their journey into the rich world of artistic expressions from Mexico and beyond.

Arte de la Vida: A Hub of Cultural Treasures

In 2012, Goodreau and Pawlak inaugurated ‘Arte de la Vida’ near Tucson Boulevard and Broadway. This unique shop, serving as both a showcase for their extensive art collection and a magnet for global customers, has grown significantly since its inception, expanding its space in 2015.

The collection at Arte de la Vida spans diverse regions and corners of Mexico, as well as other countries south of the border. The thematic focus revolves around religion and history, creating an immersive experience from floor to ceiling within the shop.

The Allure of Vintage Pieces

The walls of Arte de la Vida, much like the walls of Goodreau and Pawlak’s home, are adorned with a curated selection of vintage Mexican folk art. Goodreau emphasizes the tangible connection with the artists, stating, “You can almost feel the people’s touch.”

Pawlak echoes this sentiment, drawing attention to a Mexican saying: “Color is free, so why not use it?” The uniqueness of vintage pieces, compared to modern mass-produced ones, is underscored. According to Pawlak, being a collector is an ongoing quest for that elusive, rare find, and their acquisitions are guided by personal preferences and the suitability for the shop.

The Journey of Collection: From Southern Arizona to Guatemala

Arte de la Vida’s curators traverse Southern Arizona in search of distinctive pieces, extending their reach as far as Guatemala. The thrill of discovery is not just about acquiring items; it’s about preserving history. Pawlak recounts encounters with customers who are deeply moved by the artifacts, reminiscing about places like Nogales from two decades ago. For these patrons, purchasing a piece from the shop is akin to buying a tangible piece of their own history.

Tucson’s Warm Embrace

While the collection is central to their passion, Goodreau and Pawlak attribute their decision to settle in Tucson to the warmth and acceptance of the local community. They contemplated moving to another Southwest city but found Tucson’s people to be more welcoming. The community not only supports the shop but also contributes rare items to enhance the Arte de la Vida collection.

“We’re really glad we’ve made the move,” Pawlak expresses, emphasizing the joy of encountering wonderful individuals in Tucson.

Flourishing in 2023 and the Gem Show Boost

The year 2023 marked a milestone for Arte de la Vida, being its best year for business thus far. The annual Gem Show season adds to the vibrancy, attracting a fresh influx of customers each year.

A Tapestry Woven with Art and Community

In conclusion, the success of Arte de la Vida is not just measured in business terms but in the vibrant tapestry of art, history, and community woven together by the passion of Goodreau and Pawlak. The shop stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage Mexican folk art and the enriching connections it forges with people and places.