Fearless Women, Champions Of Change: Marie’s Impossible Dream Came True In San Miguel

By Carolina de la Cajiga

“I left France twenty-one years ago in search of an adventure,” recalls Marie Moebius, director of San Miguel’s Biblioteca Pública and co-founder of YAM Gallery. “It now feels as if México carried me along a rushing current.”

When Marie landed in México City, she enrolled in intensive Spanish lessons for four months at UNAM—five hours a day. “I am grateful for the opportunity to study at this historic institution.” With a wink, she says, “I learned how to conjugate verbs—and, as important, how to navigate the huge city.”

After that, Marie was ready to expand her horizons and deepen her knowledge of this country. Was it her Master’s degree in Cultural Industries, specializing in books, or the friends she already had in San Miguel that drew her here? “I was looking for a smaller place. San Miguel sounded like the right town. I came with no plans, but soon it felt like ‘home.’ This is where I developed my professional career and truly grew into adulthood.”

Bemused, she pauses and adds, “Not only that—I built my social life here, met my future husband, adopted my dogs, and built my house. More than I ever imagined.”

“San Miguel also gave me the opportunity to become an entrepreneur. My husband and I have owned the YAM Gallery since 2012. Being the bridge between artists and audiences makes my life whole.” Marie takes a breath. “I’m proud to help make artistic discourse accessible to the public and to participate in the social and political dialogue art inspires.”

Looking back at the gallery’s growth, she smiles. “Our perseverance has paid off. We showcase serious contemporary art and remain loyal to the artists we believe in. There is a strong sense of accomplishment when collectors acquire a piece.”

Then the pandemic changed everything.

In 2020, Marie and her husband were forced to close the gallery. She reflects, “Not knowing how long the lockdown would last, I had to look for alternatives. Then an opportunity came. I applied for the Fundraising Manager position at La Biblioteca. Though new to me, I rose to the challenge and immediately enjoyed the work.” Her emotions are still fresh.

“I have been the Director of the Biblioteca Pública since 2023. My responsibilities are diverse, and no two days look the same. I spend a lot of time with the staff, the volunteers, the Board of Directors, and the donors. My choice of profession suits me perfectly. Though work is work, there isn’t a huge barrier between my job, my hobbies, and my lifestyle. I enjoy the people I work with and our mission. No bullshit job!”

Changing the subject to her personal life, Marie says, “I have kept the French wayof life: workto live, notliving for work.” A mischievous sparkle shows in her eye. “I know I am privileged, and I’m grateful to live this way.”

“With so many years in México, I notice the similarities with France more. One example is the central role food plays in both countries’ culture and way of life.” Marie, half-closes her eyes, recollecting, “During my first year in México, I was constantly worried about spiciness. Hot chili made me suffer, and I wasn’t able to fully enjoy many dishes until I tried chile pasilla, which has a particular fruity taste. I finally figured out that chiles have flavor—not just heat. It was an epiphany!” After this revealing gastronomical experience, Marie says, “When I discovered this, I began embracing and enjoying Mexican dishes, no matter how hot they are. I guess my palate adapted, and I became more Mexican and a bit less French.” She smiles with a playful glint. “I’m both a foreigner and a Mexican. I’m a real sanmiguelense because when I heard that unmistakable whistle, I knew El Motor was approaching with his chorizo y frijoles tortas. But I feel like a foreigner because I still can’t sing rancheras”

Marie takes a moment before speaking again. “What I miss the most about France is my family and friends, the colors of autumn, and traveling by train. The sound of the swallows returning in spring. Then I remember the first thing that made me think México was paradise.”  She laughs heartily as she adds, “The insane possibility of buying a liter of freshly pressed orange juice at the market!”

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