Amapas Ascent: Stairway Stories – A Vibrant Canvas Takes Shape on the Amapas Stairs

April 5, 2024

Tamale Ringwald, a Puerto Vallarta artist. Photo by Oscar Almeida. — Tamale Ringwald is a artist and business owner in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. He has been commissioned to paint murals on the new Amapas staircase. Photo by Oscar Almeida.

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Puerto Vallarta’s Amapas Stairs are about to take on a whole new life with the launch of “Amapas Ascent: Stairway Stories,” a stunning public art project by renowned local artist Danyol León, AKA Tamale Ringwald.

This ambitious initiative goes beyond the recently completed renovations that transformed the stairs into a safer and more user-friendly passage. Amapas Ascent: Stairway Stories promises a feast for the eyes, with Tamale Ringwald weaving his artistic magic onto the well-traveled steps.

A blank canvas - the Amapas Stairs Project has been completed. Danyol León, AKA Tamale Ringwald, will be creating his vision and directing the painting of Vallarta icons on the Amapas Stairs. Photo Provided — A blank canvas – the Amapas Stairs Project has been completed. Danyol León, AKA Tamale Ringwald, will be creating his vision and directing the painting of Vallarta icons on the Amapas Stairs. Photo Provided

A Community Canvas

Tamale Ringwald, whose murals have become ingrained in the city’s cultural fabric, will curate a visual narrative on the Amapas Stairs. Imagine your climb becoming a journey through iconic Puerto Vallarta landmarks, each step revealing a vibrant new piece of the city’s story.

Beyond Landmarks: A Storyteller’s Touch

But Tamale Ringwald isn’t just capturing the essence of Puerto Vallarta. He infuses his work with personal narratives, drawing inspiration from his Mexican-American heritage and life as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. This unique approach promises to weave a tapestry of stories, celebrating diversity and enriching the community connection with the Amapas Stairs.

A Collaborative Effort

The Amapas Neighborhood Association, the driving force behind this project, extends its heartfelt thanks to Benjamin Moore Mexico for their generous donation of paint and supplies.

Get ready to be wowed! As Gary Green, president of the Amapas Neighborhood Association, enthusiastically shared on Facebook, “We’re about to rock the final phase! Get ready for an ‘InstaWorthy’ experience as we climb the Amapas stairs, now adorned with murals celebrating the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta!”

Mark your calendars! The project kicks off on Saturday, April 6th, and promises a visual transformation within a month. Get ready to witness the Amapas Stairs become not just a convenient passage, but a vibrant artwork that celebrates the spirit and stories of Puerto Vallarta.

Some examples of Tamale’s work: