Ecological perplexities in contemporary Colombian art

Abstract

Inhabiting paradise does not necessarily mean a life in harmony. Moreover, the history of mankind has repeatedly reminded us how wealth can be a nightmare. Where the extractivist fever of the colonial empires has taken us is today our heritage, we are witnesses of its catastrophic consequences and devastating statistics. The voices of the inhabitants of the peripheral territories, in relation to the hegemonic centers of power, have been silenced for centuries, although today, we have to recognize, we are witnessing exceptional times. Culture, platform par excellence for the legitimation of a community, is today an essential tool for the people of the uncomfortable periphery. That said, the Amazonian territory could not be left out of the artistic panorama, especially since it is a central point of ecological and environmental attention. This article specifically collects four examples of Colombian art that consider this precise territory of South America as a source of inspiration for contemporary culture. Taking into account different artistic practices, it is intended to give an overview of the processes and concerns that the Amazon awakens in the artistic and collective imaginary; examples that show us how we can learn from the jungle, be it as individuals, as a nation and above all, as humanity.