Today, I ventured to El Museo de Bellas Artes to take in a little bit of the more "sophisticated" culture of Santiago. The current highlight is an exhibition of Oscar Niemeyer's architecture, but as I'm continually finding, the highlight wasn't what I was most attracted to. Off of the main floor, I was surprised to find an entire wing dedicated to "Kid Art."
Organized by age, it stood as a surprising reminder of a completely different viewpoint within Chilean culture. As expected, I found some of the typical subjects: dragons and mermaids, penguins and sunsets. (I guess when you put those together, they sound odd. But honestly, they fit in the exhibit!) However, I also found something far more unexpected. Eight and ten year-olds' had painted displays of the environmental problems within the city; another showed a Chilean flag crumpled on the ground; and a six year-old had her own display for her urban photography (and she deserved it).
I suppose that I had expected to find innocence, naivete, or immaturity. Call it what you will, but I expected to find something else. What I did see was a display of awareness, maturity, and even some concern. I've felt like Santiago is a very mature city, and this experience only reinforces that belief. When schoolchildren question a country's environmental impact, urban sprawl, and even patriotism, how can you not be impressed?
At some level, I feel concerned as well. I rather fondly remember my days of innocence and naivete, when I didn't really worry about such things. These kids certainly live in a different place. But at least there are still a few dragons and mermaids floating around.
Chao.
1 comment:
Love the blog and so happy we still get to read your writing. We have enjoyed your perspective on this experience.
We are pleased you are getting out and enjoying the offerings of the city. The museum sounded interesting.
Thank you for sharing.
Mom and Dad
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