Belize coming to AMA

Belize 35

35-Year Independence Anniversary Exhibit

On view February 11-March 13, 2016

Opening Reception: February 11, 2016 at 6pm

The OAS AMA | Art Museum of the Americas presents an exhibition with artist Santiago Cal and photo journalist Karl Villanueva to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Belize’s independence using an approach that is both artistic and historic. Belizean sculptor Santiago Cal has been commissioned to create a large installation occupying an entire museum gallery. Cal’s piece includes as its subject matter Belize’s first Prime Minister George Cadle Price along with symbolic national elements such as the tapir, the national animal of Belize. According to the artist, the tapir’s mannerisms and dignity are consistent with Belizean identity as a peaceful nation. To complement Cal’s sculptural installation, a series of photos taken on September 21, 1981 by a then 24-year old photojournalist, Karl Villanueva, will be on display. These images, according to Villanueva, capture the most important day in his country’s history. It was Independence Day for Belize, the last vestige of colonialism on the Central American mainland.