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On the bicentennial of the Old State House, I was asked to organize an exhibition of Latino art that explores the contemporary relevance of this National Historic Landmark. Over the past two years as I watched the careful restoration of this edifice, and learned about the historic events that took place here, I realized this building is a national heirloom. It is an architectural treasure that helps present day visitors to identify with historic figures who walked these very halls, making palpable the revolutionary principles promoted by the Fundamental Orders (1639) which were adopted on this site -- "government must rest on the consent of the governed."
The theme of the exhibition, legacy, emerged after reflecting on the diverse influences that formed my values as an Hispanic adult. Latinos, like all other ethnic groups, have been shaped by the historical events that preceded them, including events that took place in the Old State House. The cultural traditions of both the United States and Spanish-speaking America have contributed to their formation and beliefs. Family, both immediate and extended, have all provided emotional filters through which one defines oneself and one's role in society. These are the forces which shape us as human beings. Thus the organization of the Legacy / Legado exhibition into four subsidiary themes: History, Culture, Family and Childhood. Each of the artists explore these universal themes with work selected to resonate with the beautifully restored period rooms.
As you tour this Web site, 200 years after the building's inauguration, try and recall that the Old State House sits on Meeting House Square, and on this site the community came together to debate and resolve the important civic issues of their day. That has been the role of this site, in the heart of Hartford, and it is a role the Old State House hopes to fulfill again as it opens its doors to all of the state's residents.
I want to thank the Old State House Executive Director, Wilson H. Faude, for inviting me to use art to explore the universal themes which shape us as individuals and citizens.
Luis R. Cancel, Guest Curator
The Old State
House
800 Main Street
Hartford, CT 06103
Tel: 860-522-6766
Exhibition
Dates: May 11 to October 6, 1996
Web Site Dates: May 11, 1996 to June 30, 1997
Visiting
Hours:
Monday to Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 Noon - 3:00 PM (May & June Only)
Exhibition URL: http://www.esperanto.com/Legacy/
367 East 10th Street,
Suite 6
New York, NY 10009
Tel: +1-917-208-9708
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