A project inspired by Peruvian folk art involves community-created Fen Boxes in March, Cambs, led by Karen Avilez. This initiative, incorporating the tradition of Retablos, aims to celebrate local life and culture. Over 60 participants are involved, with an exhibition set for March 29-30, showcasing personalized artworks reflecting their connections to the Fens.
A new community project in the Fenland area, inspired by Peruvian folk art, aims to celebrate local life and culture. Led by Karen Avilez, who moved from Lima, Peru to March, Cambridgeshire, the initiative focuses on creating individual artworks known as Fen Boxes, which draw upon the tradition of Peruvian Retablos. Over 60 participants are contributing to this temporary project, which will culminate in an exhibition held on March 29 and 30.
Retablos originated in Spain during the Middle Ages, primarily as tools for converting indigenous populations to Catholicism. This tradition evolved in Peru, where artists utilized Retablos to preserve cultural history, even after the country gained independence from Spain. Ms. Avilez highlights the significance of these visual objects as a means to celebrate local heritage, stating her goal of bringing this concept to Fenland.
The project is funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and is hosted on Broad Street in March. Avilez emphasizes the uniqueness of each Fen Box; they reflect individual stories and meanings for those who create them. Participants are encouraged to depict elements that resonate with their personal experiences and connection to the Fens.
The exhibition will display these unique creations, showcasing participants’ interpretations of nature, culture, and heritage through the lens of Peruvian artistic tradition. Through this collaborative effort, the Fen Boxes symbolize a shared reflection on the richness of life in the Fens, fostering community involvement and cultural appreciation among residents.
In conclusion, the Fen Boxes project in March, Cambridgeshire, highlights the intersection of Peruvian art and local culture by encouraging community participation in creative expression. The exhibition will serve as a platform to celebrate diverse individual stories while reinforcing the importance of heritage and nature. This initiative not only honors a cultural tradition but also strengthens community ties within the Fenland area.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
