The Guarani culture, a heritage that keeps its art alive
"Guarani art is not an anecdote, it is the expression of an extraordinary civilization, a culture that remained hidden, as if it were buried."
Argentine researcher Darko Sustersic.
Back in the 17th century, Italian culture, more specifically Franciscans, Jesuits, Spanish, and Italians left traces of its own art culture throughout South America. Natives learned music, drawing, wood painting, etc in workshops which eventually laid the foundation for the Baroque-Guaraní art. These all laid the foundation for the plastic art, literature, handicrafts, and other Paraguayan art forms we know today.
In Paraguay, craftsmanship is deeply intertwined with the rich Guaraní culture. The artistry of the Guaraní people is characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolism through their traditions and stories. The Guarani, skilled in woodworking, took certain elements from the European images and introduced other elements of their own culture.
There are expressions such as Ñandutí, Ao po'i, etc which serve as embodiments of Guaraní identity and culture. Through these traditional crafts, the Guaraní people are able to honor their ancestors, transmit cultural knowledge, and forge connections across generations.
That's why art and cultural traditions should be kept alive, as they express our identity and creativity through many different forms. And the purpose of Art Road is to do exactly that: shine light on unrecognized around the world.
Source: https://www.lanacion.com.ar/cultura/los-guaranies-tenian-un-arte-propio-no-copiaban-nid1427219/