Thirteenth International Conference on The Arts in Society

Abstract

In this investigation, I want to explore the ways in which the visual arts can contribute to the construction of memory in the context of reconciliation in times of post-conflict: memory which is understood as a collective exercise where all Colombians take part, regardless of their viewpoint and ideological perspective. The idea is to comprehend art as a tool to generate empathy so that people’s narratives are assumed in the path towards reconciliation. For this purpose, I propose the analysis, presentation, and application of the artistic project already in progress, La Marcha Final. In the first chapter, I begin by explicitly explaining why forgetting is not the appropriate path and then I briefly define how reconciliation can be understood in this text. Secondly, I evidence the enormous risk run if only the hegemonic version of facts are publicly accessible and will then outline the importance of putting together a collective memory that distances itself from the official memory constructed from the interests of the powerful. Thirdly, I explain why art is a valuable tool that should not be dismissed when exploring and constructing a collective memory. In the second chapter, I expound upon the artistic proposal, La march final, that aims to think of art as a tool supporting the reconciliation process in the context of the post-conflict. In this chapter, the project’s advancements are explained along with an exploration of the importance of removing the stigma associated with former FARC ex-combatants and actors of the state armed forces due to the arms they held and the camouflaged uniforms they wore in order to collectively progress towards the political growth of our country.