Social media has its ups and downs, just like everything else in life. And although we’re more used to seeing the negative side and the glass half empty, there are also initiatives that arise naturally online and help build community and make our city a friendlier place.
The Ojo Garabato project is part of this trend; it turns one year old this September and is marking the occasion with its own special “Back to School” event. The initiative, led by illustrator Diego Blanco, involves organizing outdoor gatherings to draw and promote art alongside other drawing enthusiasts.
An activity that over the past year has brought together hundreds of people at various locations throughout the city of Valencia and which is, as one would expect, completely free. After a brief summer break, the project returns next Sunday, September 13, at 10:30 a.m. On this occasion, illustrators, artists, or simply enthusiasts and curious onlookers will gather in the Monforte Gardens.
The Ojo Garabato team—composed of Diego Blanco, Gabriel Cerezuela, and Guiomar Martín—has seen how a project whose sole goal was to bring together art and drawing enthusiasts and form a group has evolved into a cross-cutting, collaborative initiative that has even been exhibited at the Nave 3 Cultural Center.
They also organize after-work activities for professional illustrators—perfect for sharing stories, anecdotes, or simply relaxing with colleagues in the field—while they draw and create new works, as is only natural.
