By Cathy Brown for The Mendoza SunLet’s just say that San Rafael, Mendoza is not exactly world famous for its progressive, open-minded thinkers, contemporary art, international music scene, or vegetarian food. Fortunately it looks like that is changing, as Racimo Multiespacio has come into the picture with a crystal clear intention of filling this void and has quickly attracted a loyal and enthusiastic following in the community.
Jorge Lardone, a photographer born and raised in San Rafael, originally had plans to open a museum of contemporary art. After much thought, he decided to create a space that could still center around art, but not be limited in any way. In February 2009, he opened Racimo with his ex-business partner Maria Laura Annun. In addition to showing works of art and hosting concerts, they worked closely with Argentine artists to sell clothing, handmade toys, music, and books. In February of 2010, Jorge pursued a larger space, and landed at Calle Bombal 57, in an opulent house from 1928 full of character and quirk.
Jorge, who himself has been through the struggle of being a working artist, has formed a place where artists that may not fit into a specific genre or commercial market know they have a place to showcase their work to a receptive and open-minded crowd. He has created a place where all forms of art at all levels of mastery are welcomed. At Racimo, you may find a talented jazz band from Chile one night, an independent film about quantum physics showing the next, followed by a festival of theatre, a bio-dance class, an open-mic night, all while organic local wine is available to enjoy. Recently Jorge has taken on Mauricio Lombardo, who offers guests culinary options such as whole wheat, organic pizza with local tomatoes and hearty vegetarian sandwiches.
What impresses me the most at Racimo is the way that everyone that walks through the door gets treated with the same respect. Whether it is a teenager from the neighborhood still learning Nirvana rifts on guitar, or Los Hermanos Fatorusso, a famous international band that Jorge has idolized for decades and had the chance to host recently, Jorge treats each artist and guest with the same love, admiration, and open heart. He allows each musician to play what they want, how they want, and for how long they want, and in this environment, many musicians have commented that they have enjoyed playing at Racimo more than any other place.
The vibe at Racimo could not be more comfortable or welcoming. Often events are so popular that there is a shortage of chairs, and guests may end up sitting on wine crates, but no one seems to mind. It seems like you are at a friend’s house and there just happens to be great music playing, organic wine flowing, art on all of the walls, and stimulating conversation everywhere you turn. Events usually begin early (at least by Argentine standards) around 10pm, and kids are always welcome. There is no smoking in the building, but guests are more than welcome to smoke on the patio.
A welcome new addition to Racimo is the large variety of local foods that are offered. Homemade whole-grain cookies, jarred organic tomato sauce, and organic and biodynamic wine are just a few of the things that partner Mauricio Gasparetti has recently brought into the storefront. Feel free to stop by to visit during the day, Monday through Saturday 9am to 1pm, and 5pm to 9pm.
To check out some of the events and classes, such as the free “Cine Para Pensar” film series or upcoming concerts, you can look up information on their Facebook group, "Racimo Multiespacio”. Racimo is also proud to be a member of the Asociacion de Galerias de Arte de San Rafael, which you can also find on Facebook.
Racimo Phone: 2627 541192
www.racimomultiespacio.blogspot.com
