Panel Discussion: Culture
Distinguished figures from the Uruguayan cultural sphere gathered at the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art on January 30, 2024, for an event to discuss the country's cultural future and its multifaceted aspects. During the gathering, there was extensive discussion on the impact of culture on peacebuilding, the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in this sector, and the importance of fine arts in promoting cultural diversity, among other aspects
In the opening session, Ernesto Fernández Polcuch, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Montevideo, emphasized the need to integrate culture into the Sustainable Development Goals, noting how the perception of culture has evolved from being considered merely decorative to recognizing its vital role in the construction of social identity and its economic contribution. This vision was supported by figures such as the Minister of Education, Pablo Da Silveira; the founder of MACA, Pablo Atchugarry; the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations, Pablo Ruiz Hiebra; and Ernesto Ottone, Deputy Director-General of UNESCO in this area, who shared a message on the subject.
In a segment dedicated to 'Culture and Education in Peacebuilding,' Enrique Iglesias, President of the Astur Foundation, highlighted the relevance of culture as a tool for international dialogue, especially at times when global peace is at risk. Iglesias argued that disciplines such as music, art, architecture, and sports have the power to unite the world, advocating for cultural budgets to be considered an essential investment
On the other hand, Pablo Atchugarry emphasized the need to enhance children's participation in art, not only as observers but as main actors. His focus on valuing artistic expression from childhood aims at creating a more creative and empathetic society.
As a conclusion to this panel, Alcira Sandoval, UNESCO Culture Specialist, presented a summary of the effort made by the organization to forge an international agreement that recognizes and promotes culture. Sandoval emphasized the need to educate the audience to understand and value the fundamental role of culture in art, an initiative aimed at ensuring the long-term appreciation and sustainability of cultural expressions.
At the event marked by artistic richness, attendees had the pleasure of listening to distinguished figures from the music and literature realms. Venezuelan violinist Cecilia Tuesta, renowned for being the first female concertmaster of the National Symphony Orchestra of SODRE, captivated the audience not only with her exceptional musical talent but also by sharing anecdotes from her life. The atmosphere was further enriched by the participation of Uruguayan poet and literary critic, Ida Vitale, who read several poems and entertained the audience with her wit and humor.
On a completely different note, the dialogue delved into the complex world of artificial intelligence (AI), its ethics, and its future impact on cultural and creative industries. Octavio Kulesz, UNESCO expert in the field, shared his vision on how AI can enhance creativity in the cultural sector by reducing barriers and increasing productivity. However, he also warned about significant challenges accompanying these opportunities, including the need for technical knowledge to handle AI, issues with copyright, biases in data related to gender, religion, and ethnicity, and the threat of job loss in the cultural sphere.
In the final section of the dialogue, dedicated to exploring "Culture as Fine Arts," distinguished figures from the Uruguayan cultural sphere shared their current visions and challenges. Gabriel Calderón, director of the National Comedy, reflected on Uruguay's vast cultural value, highlighting the paradox of its great cultural wealth in the face of the difficulty of translating it into economic value. He emphasized the responsibility of public institutions to broaden the cultural horizon with lofty ambitions, dreaming of establishing lasting relationships with the audience.
María Noel Riccetto, director of the National Ballet of SODRE, sent an inspiring message to the new generations, emphasizing that the training of an artist is a constant and committed process.
On the other hand, Rossana Carrete, director of the Historical Museum of the Cabildo, highlighted the contribution of museums to the development of critical thinking and collective memory, advocating for multiculturalism and diversity. Carrete made special mention of an exhibition about the contributions of the Afro-descendant community in Uruguay, addressing the manifestation of racism in a society that considers itself non-racist.
Closing the dialogue, visual artist Alejandro Cruz reflected on the work of artists who capture contemporaneity and project it into the future. This segment underscored the complexity and richness of the Uruguayan cultural landscape, emphasizing the need for continuous and ambitious efforts to value and promote diversity and cultural heritage in the country.
You can watch the full dialogue at this link:
- UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
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