Where to study art in Guatemala and what are its benefits | Guatemala Herald News

Some think that art is just an entertainment activity; However, it is the tangible manifestation of the identity, values and beliefs of a culture. In addition, practicing some discipline allows inner expression, improves mental health and increases IQ.

“Art is a human manifestation that expresses or reflects the inner life, whether intellectual, psychological, emotional, through technique and matter. That is why there are so many expressions of art, for example: the sculpture, the theater, the dance and the musicwhere the voice, hands, body and various instruments are used and materials as means of expression”explains Rodolfo Milian, graduate in Art.

He adds that, Throughout history, art has served as a means of protest and denunciation, as well as to relate, transmit and communicate historical, social, political, economic, religious, cultural, folkloric and everyday life events.

Carlos Mota, academic pedagogical coordinator of the National Conservatory of Music, agrees that art is a liberating activity that enhances the development of other skills that systematic study does not develop and improves performance even in areas such as language and mathematics.

“Art allows the development of critical judgment and specific psychomotor skills, according to the discipline that is practiced. The artist uses it as a expression toolbecause we communicate through movement, sounds, music, colors and shapes; and that, obviously, moves sensibilities, feelings and passion in the public that appreciates it,” he adds.

Creativity, intellect and tranquility

On November 26, 2019, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed World Art Dayin recognition of the contribution of art to the dissemination of knowledge and its importance in promoting creativity, innovation and cultural diversity.

In Guatemala there are various public and private institutions that promote and bring together the learning of different disciplines, for both children and young people, adults and seniorsWell, according to experts, what is needed to get involved in artistic expression is intention, motivation, will and discipline.

“We all have different skills and abilities, but we can develop others. By entering an academy you can develop various techniques and have a broader range to define your own style and express yourself better.”says Milian.

Even for adults it represents a space for recreation, relaxation and abstraction from their daily activities and responsibilities. “The adult works from Monday to Saturday, generally an extended day, in addition to the stress of traffic. So, Participating in some artistic activity gives you an incentive to forget a little about all that”Adds Mota.

Practicing art at any age also allows the learning and development of technical, physical, motor, cognitive, intellectual and socio-emotional skills that promote mental health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO)the arts are suitable for helping to understand and communicate concepts and emotions, since they stimulate all the senses and even the capacity for empathy.

“Participating in artistic activities can increase self-esteem, self-acceptance and self-confidence, which helps protect against mental disorders. For example, children and adolescents who participate in artistic activities have better levels of well-being, socialization and resilience,” says the WHO report.

This will be the seventh year in which World Art Day is commemorated, which invites us to disseminate information about art and organize activities that highlight the work and condition of artists.

Milian and Mota suggest commemorate the date by getting closer to the artists and their worksand look for activities in museums, theaters, Guatemalan film screenings, concerts, art galleries and any space that presents artistic expressions.

Art schools in Guatemala

In Guatemalan territory there are various public and private art schools where it is possible to learn or specialize in a discipline. Through free courses or technical careers, these centers are open to people of all ages. These are some national and municipal schools located in the department of Guatemala:

The National School of Plastic Arts offers courses in drawing, painting and sculpture. (Free Press Photo: Courtesy of the National School of Plastic Arts)