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Galería Namú: A Celebration of Indigenous Art

Discover authentic indigenous and folk art at Galería Namú in San José, Costa Rica. Support fair trade and explore the region's rich cultural heritage.

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Galería Namú, located in downtown San José, Costa Rica, is a unique art gallery dedicated to showcasing the artwork of indigenous and folk artists from Costa Rica and Central America. The gallery promotes fair trade practices, offering a diverse collection inspired by the region's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Galería Namú

  • Av. 7, San José, El Carmen, San José Province, CR
  • +50688009252
  • Monday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience and more personal attention from the knowledgeable staff.
  • Ask about the stories behind the art pieces and the artists who created them to deepen your appreciation.
  • Check the gallery's website or social media for information on special exhibitions or events.
  • Consider purchasing a tagua nut carving or woven basket as a unique and authentic souvenir.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Galería Namú is located in downtown San José, specifically in Barrio Amon, behind the Holiday Inn tower, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Parque Central, walk north towards Avenida 7. Continue on Avenida 7 until you reach Calle 5. The gallery will be on your right. Walking from Parque Central takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    San José has an extensive bus system. Many buses stop near Parque Central, a short walk from Galería Namú. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option. Bus fares within the city are typically less than $1 USD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available in San José. Request the driver to use the meter ('Ponga la María por favor'). A short taxi ride from Parque Central to Galería Namú should cost approximately 580-2500 colones. Uber is also a dependable option.

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Discover more about Galería Namú

Galería Namú is a cultural gem in San José, Costa Rica, celebrating the legacy of Central America's first peoples through art. The gallery's name, "Namu," meaning jaguar in the Bribri language, honors the sacred animal in many indigenous cultures. Founded in 1998 by Aisling French, the gallery showcases a diverse collection of indigenous and folk art, offering a platform for artists to display their work at reasonable prices while ensuring fair trade. Unlike other galleries, Galería Namú brings together a rich collection of art, defying the notion that Costa Rica lacks arts beyond wood crafts. Visitors can find inspiration in the art, influenced by the country's natural beauty, and admire the knowledge of the staff. The gallery features a range of works, including woven baskets, carved tagua nuts depicting rainforest animals, and pottery from the Chorotega. Galería Namú is located in the historic Barrio Amon, behind the Holiday Inn tower. Visiting Galería Namú offers an opportunity to learn about Costa Rica's indigenous tribes and appreciate authentic art. The gallery's commitment to fair trade ensures that artists receive equitable compensation for their work. Whether you're an art connoisseur or a traveler seeking to connect with Costa Rican creativity, Galería Namú provides a welcoming environment to experience the essence of local artistic expression.

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