Cuenca’s IdiomARTE broadens its intercultural mission, offering space for full spectrum of the arts
By Jeremiah Reardon
IdiomART opened its doors at Mariscal Lamar 14-25 and Estevez de Toral three years ago. Conveniently located next to Tres de Noviembre Tranvia stop, the intercultural creative hub and event space is operated by Sarah Hanen Bauer. Many people from diverse areas on different communication platforms rate idiomART as one of Cuenca’s leading cultural centers. Offering workshops and exhibitions to live events and community gatherings, it’s a premier presenter. A sturdy ramp leads from a broad sidewalk to its entrance, an inclusive gesture for the handicapped.
IdiomARTE visitor studies Alberto Soriano’s paintings.
What’s changing at idiomART? Let’s begin with its new name, idiomARTE. The “E” added to the end of its name reflects the center’s appreciation for Cuenca’s Spanish-speaking community. Its new name has a Spanish sound and connotation, and it reinforces how over time idiomART has broadened its cultural appeal and connected with the local community.
Cristian Leon instructs his student.
On June 27 a hall full of expats and locals turned out for its revelARTE celebration. The Open House revealed its new name; new logo-idiomARTE casa creativa intercultural; along with announcements of new programs. “It took us several weeks to prepare for the event,” Sarah told me.
It proved to be a great celebration to let off steam, hang out with cool people and have fun. The hall exhibited student art including original paintings and mirrors, ceramics and mosaic finished guitars. DJ music greeted early arrivals to the center; later, tango dancers performed. Live music played by bands closed out the evening.
IdiomARTE ceramic student.
The night’s focus on fun hit its climax with videos of past programs and shows played on a large screen set up on the band stage. I joined friends on the second-floor mezzanine. Gazing down, we had a perfect view. I hoped for a glimpse of myself on the screen.
Afterwards Sarah said, “It’s so much fun to see everyone and to feel all the love! We are very excited about what’s ahead for us and love seeing friendly faces who have supported us from the beginning as well as brand new folks who are just getting to know who we are!”
Andean dancers entertain crowd at idiomARTE.
Community shapes us and the energy flowing through idiomARTE is positive for meeting like-minded folks and integrating our lives with the community. IdiomARTE wants us to be a part of these exciting changes. Its creative community is magical and keeps the vibe growing and flowing!
Current offerings at idiomARTE for July include art education, an art installation, concerts and performances. On July 17 the center has the honor of hosting a unique civic event. With discussions in Spanish, candidates campaign for the office of president of the city’s entertainment venue Casa de La Cultura. For neighbors eligible to vote, they have the chance to approach community professionals and express their concerns.
Los Guajiros performing at revelARTE.
Whether you attend a class, a musical event or paint with artists in their studios or study Spanish upstairs in a sunny space, you will get to know the community that shapes us. Friends whom we wouldn’t have met and conversations we wouldn’t have had suddenly happen at idiomARTE.
Tullpuna painting is back at idiomARTE and this time it’s extra special. Tullpuna is a painting experience led by local artist Cristian Leon. This month, participants will paint one-of-a-kind ceramic vases handcrafted by Candy Sugarman. No two vases are alike, and once you add your artistic touch, your creation will be entirely your own.
The class is on Saturday, July 26 at 3 PM and is limited to eight participants. A $50 fee includes all materials, including your vase. Reservations Events: res@idiomartcuenca.com
Candy Sugarman poses for life drawing class.
Cultura Viva Spanish lectures are presented by Alejandra Herrera, idiomARTE’s grammar guru and certified Spanish-As-A-Foreign-Language teacher. The culturally based topics include art and music, the environment, self-government and scholarship. Alejandra responds to grammar and vocabulary questions from her students. Spanish Program Email: LearnSpanish@idiomartcuenca.com
Diana Moscoso, a Cuenca native, leads discussions on socio-environmental topics. With a master’s degree from the University of Chile, Diana’s focus is cultural and environmental conservation, stewardship and self-governance.
IdiomARTE revelers join Sarah Hanen Bauer (left front).
Goals for the future include improved communication, marketing and social media applications. IdiomARTE welcomes the participation of volunteers and interns with interests and specialties which serve these ambitions.
At idiomARTE casa creativa intercultural, creativity connects us. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/idiomarte.cuenca
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Photos by Sarah Hanen Bauer
