I Love U Chingos, Laredo!

By Selina Villarreal

February 2018

There’s so much talent brewing in Laredo. Let me take this time to introduce you to one of Laredo’s artists, Poncho Santos. I like to refer to him as “Mr. I Love U Chingos.”

‘I LOVE U CHINGOS’ is a light installation by the artist. It illuminates the space at the Pan American Courts Food Truck Park located at 3301 San Bernardo Avenue.

Courtesy photo

I asked Poncho what his inspiration was for the piece and he said, “It is inspired by the way most people from Laredo say, ‘I Love You’.” It was first displayed at a Valentine’s theme solo show on February 9, 2017 and has become an iconic public work of art since then.

Photo by instagramer: @mona.s_journey

Photo by instagramer: @vivian1025

Friends, families, and lovers can be seen waiting to take pictures in front of the sign when visiting the Pan American Courts Food Truck Park. The hours of operation are Wednesday through Friday from 7pm – 12am and Saturdays from 7pm-1am. When you’re in Laredo, stop by and have your picture taken with one of Laredo’s favorite works of art. You can enjoy great eats from several food trucks, sip on an icy beverage from Cultura Beer Garden and you might even catch some local musicians jamming out.

Courtesy photo

Photo by instagramer: @bumpthelion

Photo by instagramer: @veronicalsandoval

Aside from taking your memories with you, you can also snag some ‘I LOVE U CHINGOS’ merchandise. Walk around the food truck park and step in to MUSA Alternative Art Space or the Schwartz Gallery for some ‘I LOVE YOU CHINGOS’ t-shirts and other items to take as a souvenir.