The Benque Viejo del Carmen and San Ignacio Houses of Culture are set to host a series of art sessions for women, marking the 20th anniversary of the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH). The initiative, which commences this Saturday, invites women and girls to create art pieces for the WOMEX in Art 2024 exhibition, a celebration of strength and unity under the theme ‘StrongHER: Mentoring, Elevating & Ascending Together’.
A Canvas of Strength and Unity
The art sessions, facilitated by Neima Lognsworth in Benque Viejo del Carmen and Ana Velasquez in San Ignacio, aim to provide a platform for women to express their creativity and share their stories. The sessions in San Ignacio will take place on February 10, 17, and 24, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, while the Benque Viejo del Carmen session is scheduled for this Saturday, from 1:00-3:00 pm.
Lognsworth, an accomplished artist, expressed her excitement about the project, “This is a wonderful opportunity for women to come together, share their experiences, and create something beautiful. Art has the power to heal, inspire, and bring people together, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this initiative.”
Velasquez echoed Lognsworth’s sentiments, “The ‘StrongHER’ theme resonates deeply with me. It’s about empowering women, celebrating their achievements, and creating a supportive community. I’m looking forward to seeing the incredible art pieces that will emerge from these sessions.”
Celebrating NICH’s 20th Anniversary
The art sessions are part of a broader celebration marking NICH’s 20th anniversary. The institute has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Belize’s rich cultural heritage, and the ‘StrongHER’ initiative is a testament to its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
Sara Novelo, the Director of NICH, spoke about the significance of the ‘StrongHER’ theme, “We wanted to celebrate the strength and resilience of Belizean women, and the ‘StrongHER’ theme encapsulates that perfectly. This initiative is about mentoring, elevating, and ascending together, and we’re excited to see the art pieces that will emerge from these sessions.”
A Blank Canvas Awaits
The art pieces created during the sessions will be exhibited at the NICH at 20 celebration in March 2024. The venue and materials for the sessions will be provided, and women are encouraged to register in advance to secure their spot.
As the Houses of Culture prepare to open their doors to women artists, the air is filled with anticipation. The ‘StrongHER’ initiative promises to be a celebration of creativity, unity, and the indomitable spirit of Belizean women.
In the words of Ana Velasquez, “This is more than just an art session. It’s a journey of self-discovery, a celebration of sisterhood, and a testament to the power of art to transform lives.”
As the women gather their brushes and prepare their canvases, they stand on the precipice of creating something truly remarkable. The ‘StrongHER’ initiative is not just about creating art; it’s about creating a legacy, a tribute to the strength and resilience of Belizean women.
