Thirty young students from the Las Vueltas School Center, Chalatenango, have successfully completed a “Creative Laboratory of ethnographic research, drawing and embroidery”, promoted by the Museum of the Word and Image (MUPI), with the support of the United Nations Program United Nations Development Program (UNDP). This project, facilitated by popular educators Teresa Cruz and Gisele Vides, has the main objective of bringing young people closer to the cultural and traditional wealth of their communities.
During this process, students participated in research activities that allowed them to connect with their roots and explore local legends and myths through oral stories transmitted by their ancestors. Through the art of embroidery, each young person captured figures on fabric that reflect the worldview of the communities, including iconic characters from Salvadoran folklore such as El Cipitío, El Cadejo, La Duenda and other mythical beings from the region.
As a result, the embroideries produced are a sample of popular art that, in addition to their aesthetic value, represent a valuable tool of cultural and identity preservation for new generations.
These works will be presented in an upcoming exhibition organized by the Museum of Word and Image (MUPI), where they will share space with other creations produced in the Creative Laboratories of fanzines, photo voice and hip-hop music. This exhibition not only aims to highlight the talent of the young people of Chalatenango, but also to publicize the diversity of artistic expressions that emerge from the community training workshops, thus strengthening the link between youth and the cultural heritage of El Salvador.
Interview: Exploring Cultural Identity Through Embroidery in Chalatenango
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our interview series where we delve deep into the intersection of culture, art, and identity. Today, we have with us Dr. Ana Martinez, an expert in cultural studies and ethnographic research, who has been closely following a fascinating initiative in Chalatenango, El Salvador. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Martinez.
Dr. Ana Martinez (AM): Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here to discuss such an inspiring project.
TNE: Recently, thirty young students from the Las Vueltas School Center in Chalatenango were involved in a “Creative Laboratory” that focused on ethnographic research, drawing, and embroidery. Can you tell us how this initiative started and its significance?
AM: Absolutely. This initiative was designed to empower the youth of Chalatenango to explore and express their cultural identity through the traditional art of embroidery. The program was rooted in a desire to reconnect these young people with their heritage and provide them with the tools to express their stories creatively. The combination of ethnographic research and artistic expression allows them to delve into their community’s history and convey it visually through their works.
TNE: What impact do you think this project has on the young participants and the wider community?
AM: The impact is multifaceted. For the participants, it’s a means of self-discovery. They learn to appreciate their cultural roots while gaining practical skills in art and design. For the community, it fosters a sense of pride in their traditions—embroidery is not just a craft; it’s a way of telling their stories and preserving their history. Moreover, showcasing their work can attract interest from tourists and art enthusiasts, providing opportunities for economic development as well.
TNE: That’s a beautiful way to look at it. I’ve read that the project emphasized ethnographic research. How does this aspect enhance their understanding and appreciation of culture?
AM: Ethnographic research encourages participants to engage actively with their own community. They are not simply creating art; they’re learning the stories behind their patterns and techniques, understanding the context of their cultural practices. This exploration deepens their appreciation for their ancestry and fosters a responsibility to keep these traditions alive.
TNE: The images from the project are incredibly striking. How do you think art, particularly something like embroidery, serves as a medium for social change?
AM: Art is a powerful form of communication. It transcends language and can evoke emotions and spark conversations in ways that words alone may not. Embroidery, as a visual art form, is a means of reclaiming narratives and expressing individual and collective identities. When young people create pieces rooted in their culture, they create visibility and recognition for their heritage, which can challenge stereotypes and prejudices. It encourages others to see the value and beauty in their culture as well.
TNE: Moving forward, what do you hope to see as a result of projects like this in Chalatenango and beyond?
AM: I hope to see more programs that empower youth through cultural arts worldwide. These initiatives should not only focus on traditional skills but also incorporate modern techniques and expressions. Ultimately, I envision a future where cultural heritage and contemporary art coalesce, allowing younger generations to innovate while honoring the past. It’s about creating a continuous dialogue between generations.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s inspiring to see how cultural identity can be explored and celebrated through the art of embroidery in Chalatenango.
AM: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to discuss such an important topic. I look forward to seeing how these young artists continue to shape and share their identities.