There are more examples of native art and culture in Gran Canaria than in any of the other Canary Islands. If you are interested in native art, rather than the newer stuff, you might like to check out the painted cave in Gáldar in the north of the island.
The Cueva Pintada, or painted cave, is decorated with red, white and ocher geometric motifs like circles, squares and triangles. Similar designs are found on Canarian ceramics.
Mud was one of the raw materials the native Canarians had to work with. They also enjoyed handicrafts like masonry, weaving baskets, spinning and woodwork. These days art is alive and well all over Gran Canaria and you can see huge sculptures in many city streets such as in Vecindario and Las Palmas. Graffiti is also widespread but that is not everyone’s idea of “art” of course! 🙂
Photo by Marshall Flickman
Where to Buy Arty Souvenirs
If you visit Mogan market or any Canarian souvenir shop you can buy native art replicas such as photo frames, ashtrays or clothing decorated with the geometric motifs. You might like to buy some traditional Canarian tablecloths or napkins.
Items made from sand or lava are popular souvenirs and gifts and these are sometimes decorated with lizards and iguanas. You can get many different shell ornaments and jewellery too, as is the case with most tourist resorts, but the native art is still very popular here today.