Living Artfully: Kathleen Carrillo and the Rise of a Creative Hub in Puerto Vallarta
February 16, 2026
Sharing My Life As An Artist In Puerto Vallarta
I was fortunate enough to sit down with the owner of the "Petit Joys, Khaled Bakleh, and share what it life is like as an artist living in the beautiful town of Puerto Vallarta. It was a joy and a pleasure to collaborate with such an insightful individual
A Conversation With Petit Joys
Puerto Vallarta is often descried through its sunsets beaches, and ocean views. But some of its deepest beauty lives in the people who create here.
For our newest Petit Notes Feature, we sat down with artist Kathleen Carrillo, whose work and gallery in the Romantic Zone invite visitors to see the city more slowly.
Kathleen speaks about identity, art, memory, the creative spirit of Puerto Vallarta, and the kind of beauty she calls "Gritty Elegance". She also shares why the city's art walks, from Centro Historico to the Southside Shuffle in the Romantic Zone, offer one of the most meaningful ways to experience Vallarta Beyond the postcard.
This is a conversation about art, yes. But more than that, it is about looking closer. Read the full interview on Petit Notes
Kathleen has her masters degree in fine art specializing in painting and printmaking, from the University of Oklahoma. She has been painting for over thirty years, and has national and international acclaim. Her works are found in public and private collections throughout the world and she has won awards too numerous to mention. Each of her purchases are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a resume. Her original images are sought after and sold quite frequently before they are completed. She is often working on commissions, and preparing for gallery shows. You can be assured that your originals and giclee prints will have the expression that you would expect, and the highest quality works available on the market. Kathleen personally signs and numbers each hand embellished, limited edition giclee and guarantees your purchase with a certificate of authenticity.
