By: Michelle Young, Copy Editor and Hailey Miller, Staff Writer
October is Latin American Heritage Month, with a variety of events happening across Vancouver and throughout the mainland through October 15 to November 3. Latincouver and the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre have organized several events that will feature art exhibitions, conversations, and more. Here’s a feature of the many celebrations to engage in throughout Latin American Heritage Month, and immerse yourself in the cultures, creativity, and traditions!
Sing, Don’t Cry Exhibition
When: Oct. 17, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Where: THIS Gallery, 268 Keefer St., Vancouver
An exhibit by Mexican visual artist Angie Quintanilla Coates and hosted by Miret Rodriguez, “this showcase explores the persistent optimism of Mexican life through bold geometric forms and vivid colours.” The exhibit, held by the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre, is inspired by the mantra “canta y no llores” (sing and don’t cry), which “reflects this spirit of persistent joyfulness.”
Across the Americas: Colombia
When: Oct. 21, 5:00 p.m.
Where: University Canada West
Hosted by Latincouver, this event showcases “Colombia’s most beautiful and culturally significant regions.” The journey is an interactive tour that will evoke the senses and engage audience members with the “warmth of Colombian hospitality,” “traditional flavors,” and “the rhythms” of Colombia.
Traditional Altar Installation — “Día de los Muertos”
When: Oct. 15–Nov. 3, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where: Ocean Art Works, Granville Island
This exhibition, hosted by Latincouver, “invites the community to honour loved ones with an altar curated by Mexican artist Paloma Morales” to celebrate the Day of the Dead. It will also feature “photos and tributes” as a part of the exhibit, and educational sessions that will explore the “rich heritage” of Día de los Muertos.
Art Exhibition — “Color Calavera”
When: Oct. 15–Nov. 3, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where: Latin Hub & Ocean Art Works, Granville Island
Artist Adrián Edgar’s paintings will be featured in this exhibit, which draws on inspiration from the Day of the Dead. Edgar incorporates visuals of skeletons and skulls (in Spanish, calacas and calaveras) in his works. The paintings are enriched with “his vibrant use of colour” as he showcases “the beauty of all aspects of life.”
Self-Portrait of Translation
When: Oct. 24 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Third floor, The Nest, 1398 Cartwright St., Vancouver
In collaboration with the Vancouver Writers Fest, the Vancouver Latin American Cultural Centre is hosting a conversation between translators George McWhirter and Carmen Rodríguez. They will be discussing McWhirter’s recent translation of Self-Portrait in the Zone of Silence by Mexican author Homero Aridjis. Self-Portrait in the Zone of Silence is a collection of poems that explores “mythical animals, family ghosts, Mexico’s oppressed,” and “naked angels in the metro.”
Live Commemorative Mural — “Harmony” from El Salvador
When: Nov. 2 and 3, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Where: Day of the Day Market, Granville Island
Engage in harmony alongside this live mural painting curated by graffiti artist Efrain Orellana. With help from the local Latincouver community, this exhibit will be made in harmony with anyone who engages in the mural painting process. The intention is to connect “Indigenous cultures across Latin America and Canada in four creative sessions.”
