Can a village heal after the massacre of its children? A Berkeley artist journeys into the jungle of El Salvador to battle repression and obliteration with the life affirming act of creating art.
Claudia Bernardi was my teacher and mentor when I was an undergraduate Art History major. She awoke in me a passion for the intersection between art and social justice movements. This connection changed the trajectory of my career and my life.
The film Artist of Resistance tells the story of her own awakening to the power of art to support the pursuit of justice and healing. It is an extraordinary story of an extraordinary woman, one that has much to teach us about finding joy and healing in the difficult times we are living in today.
Read on for the film description and info on how to join the film screening and discussion!
THE FILM:
Set in the jungle of El Salvador, this story of an Argentine/USA artist and an El Salvadorian mother speaks to the presence of courage and spirit in the midst of cultural repression.
Artist Claudia Bernardi (Berkeley-based Argentinian artist) takes a journey into the guerrilla territory of El Salvador to participate in the excavation of a mass grave. There she meets Rufina Amaya Marquez, the only survivor of the massacre.
Punctuated by violence and beauty, Artist of Resistance speaks not only to the brutality of political repression, but also to the visionary alternatives of hope and change.
THE WATCH PARTY & DISCUSSION:
Claudia Bernardi and the children of Perqin
We will meet on Zoom on July 19th and together watch the 1-hour long film, followed by a discussion about the themes of the film, and how it might inspire our actions in these times. Supported by Reiki-based embodiment practices and thought-provoking discussion questions. Hosted by Michaela of HeartScapes.
INVESTMENT:
As your contribution to this work, we ask that you do one or both of the following:
Make a donation to Walls of Hope, the non-profit started to honor and continue Claudia’s work using community mural making to enable healing and reconciliation following violent conflict. Donate here.
Purchase Claudia’s new book, Art Against Brutality, available here.