Tonight, our group went on a very unique excursion. We went to an "art burning." This wasn't anything hedonistic; but rather a cross cultural tradition. Every year, Spain picks a Latin American country, hires a local artist to create an enormous statue of paper machete, then hosts a celebratory burning of the "sculpture" in honor of one of their saints. This year, they chose Uruguay!! So we were blessed with the unique experience. The masterpiece was bright and vivid with the life and culture of South America etched into it. The band played music all night. Fireworks anticipated the event. Children chanting "Fuego! Fuego! Fuego!" lit up smiles. And, the burning of the masterpiece was consecrated as ash and smoke swirled into the sky. I am unsure as to the complete purpose of this event, but either way, knowledgeable or not, I was dipped deeper into the Latin American culture.
Tonight, our group went on a very unique excursion. We went to an "art burning." This wasn't anything hedonistic; but rather a cross cultural tradition. Every year, Spain picks a Latin American country, hires a local artist to create an enormous statue of paper machete, then hosts a celebratory burning of the "sculpture" in honor of one of their saints. This year, they chose Uruguay!! So we were blessed with the unique experience. The masterpiece was bright and vivid with the life and culture of South America etched into it. The band played music all night. Fireworks anticipated the event. Children chanting "Fuego! Fuego! Fuego!" lit up smiles. And, the burning of the masterpiece was consecrated as ash and smoke swirled into the sky. I am unsure as to the complete purpose of this event, but either way, knowledgeable or not, I was dipped deeper into the Latin American culture.
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