Nuevo Santander Gallery

In 2003, Becky and Che Guerra celebrated the fifth anniversary of their art gallery, Nuevo Santander. Located in the Olde Towne area of McAllen at the corner of Hackberry and Main streets, the gallery has become something of a regional landmark. Spanish conquistador José de Escandón colonized southern Texas and northern Mexico in the 18th century and called the region Nuevo Santander. The Guerras named their gallery in honor of his discovered land. "We wanted a historic representation of that period in this region," Becky Guerra says.

The warmth and charm of the building's Spanish colonial style provides an elegant setting for the many artifacts that tell the story of life on the Rio Grande and the colonial Mexico border. The entryway's 150-year-old doors and Mexican ironwork add authenticity to the building. The stonework in the gallery is caliche caprock mined locally, and native mesquite wood is used for interior floors and doors. Tile and stained glass add to the feeling of elegance and tranquility, and a special lighting system adds to the ambience.

Artworks are not limited to the Spanish colonial period, although it is well represented. Traditional realism is the theme of the gallery with original oil, pastel and watercolor paintings. A venue for local artists, with the works of five on exhibit at any given time, the gallery is also host to national and international art with works by artists past and present. The Old West is well represented with a collection of vintage saddles, spurs and antique guns. Mexican collectibles include currency and coins, sombreros and medals. There also are Spanish colonial collectibles.

Numerous special exhibits are held at Nuevo Santander during the year, ranging from photography and wildlife art to an "artist at work" event. Guerra spends most of her time in the gallery's office and with the couple's three children. Husband Che is often on the road searching out Western collectibles from private estates in Mexico and across the United States. Both are active in their community and take pride in sharing its history through their gallery. The community has received us with great enthusiasm and support," Guerra says. "When locals have company visiting, they bring them here as one of the sights to see. Whether it's a person visiting their first gallery or an experienced collector discovering something that captures their heart, it's a pleasure to share the experience.