Utilizing all of the work compiled during the research phase, of LIVING HISTORY, I will construct a photomontage. In accordance with the survivors, through workshops, a photographic montage will be installed as a public educational exhibit, on the surrounding local cemetery wall.  After including the community members in dynamic educational workshops we will “collage” the ideas together and  will electronically design the wall panels.

 

The files will be reproduced in large format photography onto high tech vinyl, (which is impregnated with long lasting automotive paint )the same material that advertisers use today when they wrap buses and buildings.    With the implementation of this project a visual holocaust museum can be envisioned.   As they journey past the cemetery everyday the people of Rabinal will be able to see the faces of their loved ones.  The photographic montage will tell the history of Rabinal from the point of view of the communities and will inspire a hopefulness to live a better future life.

 

 

Utilizing the photographs, written and oral testimonies recorded by our Documentation Team we will create DVD’s to be used as educational tools. The research will produce a comprehensive archive for both academic and non-academic users in the form of DVD’s, brochures, lectures and photo-duplications.   We have met with the national human rights organization (CALDH) and the Department of Education to integrate LIVING HISTORY into the curriculum of the high school students in Guatemala. This will enable the populous to work together to ensure that the reoccurrence of these events does not happen and hope that reconciliation will be achieved.

 

LIVING HISTORY believes that one of the reasons that degradation of human rights occurs is because of a lack of general consciousness and education; if we the people know what is happening in our world, then we the people can strive to halt it.  Internationally, we will further the educational impact by fostering a understanding that we as human beings, brothers and sisters cannot let ourselves treat each other in such a manner.

 

We will interview with NPR “Story Books”, to speak about my artwork to be used as a tool for social action and  education world wide.  Using art as a  universal language we can all see, feel and understand.  During the program we will also discuss, the current court cases that are being reviewed in Guatemala, with an emphasis on how this work contributes to justice and retaining peace within the area to prevent these acts from reoccurring. 

 

Another facet of my work will be a lecture series for students, created to exemplify how one person can make a difference.   I will give lectures at my Alma Mater, Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, Maryland using the educational DVD’s we created. Demonstrating, how one’s will and creative thinking can make a shift in the world, making it a more hospitable place.  That we as human beings have a social responsibility to stand up when inhumane behavior is exhibited, so any future attempts of genocide around the world will not be tolerated.

 

I plan to contact 15 Universities in the United States, including Rutgers University in New Jersey, that has  a strong human rights and anthropology program.  I will distribute the DVD’s to the chairs of the programs so that they can use this educational tool within their curriculums.