The excitement of discovering unique artwork in unexpected places is an experience that can captivate and inspire. Our second art purchase unfolded on a cruise to Costa Rica, where we encountered not only a one-of-a-kind masterpiece but the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. In this article, I’ll share the story of our Costa Rican escapade and how we stumbled upon an exceptional piece of art that captured our hearts and imagination.

The Port of Wonders

As our ship docked at the eastern port of Costa Rica, we were eager to explore the vibrant and colorful world that awaited us. Stepping off the ship, we entered a bustling cruise terminal filled with small artisan shops, each offering a treasure trove of unique creations. We spent half an hour browsing through the stalls, my husband indulging my passion for art and even finding a few amusing souvenirs for himself.

A Captivating Discovery

One stall, in particular, caught my attention. It showcased a series of striking canvases, painted in rich brown hues, with strips of leather arranged to form 3D animal profiles. Among them, a majestic horse head stood out, its intricate leather details evoking a sense of movement and life. I was captivated by the originality of the piece, but initially hesitated to make the purchase. However, as we ventured further from the terminal, I couldn’t resist the pull of the artwork and decided to return.

A Race Against Time

We retraced our steps, eager to secure the exceptional piece before it was snatched up by another art enthusiast. My husband, ever the skilled negotiator, haggled with the vendor and struck a deal we were both happy with. As fate would have it, another cruise passenger arrived just as we were sealing the deal, eager to purchase the artwork herself. Had we hesitated just a few minutes longer, our prized discovery would have slipped through our fingers.

Securing the Treasure

With the transaction complete, we carefully carried our new acquisition – a 3’x4′ canvas mounted on a wooden frame with the striking 3D horse head – back to our cabin, navigating security and excitedly discussing the newest addition to our art collection. The piece’s unique design and craftsmanship made it the perfect addition to our home, and it now proudly hangs in our bedroom as a constant reminder of our Costa Rican adventure.

Since that fateful trip to Costa Rica, I’ve made it a point to seek out and support local artists in the countries we visit, collecting small but meaningful treasures that capture the essence of the places we’ve explored. Our Costa Rican horse head canvas is not only a striking piece of art but also a reminder of the thrill of discovery and the excitement of uncovering hidden gems in the most unexpected places.