Spirit of Place : Guatemala
The Art Workshops in Guatemala, with Douglas Beasley, October 27 – November 5, 2011
Join us in exploring the mysterious, exotic Mayan world of Guatemala, a land where the indigenous live as they have for centuries. The stunningly beautiful colonial town of La Antigua, the artistic center of Guatemala, will be our home base and introduction to outdoor markets, music, food and culture. We will stay in an enchanting colonial hacienda B&B, with courtyard gardens, in the heart of town, close to the Parke Central, where the abundant street life and many small shops revolve around.
Our workshop begins with a Mayan ceremony, conducted Calixta Gabriel, a Mayan ‘shaman’ from a remote village, with a Masters Degree in social work. From there we will make day trips to visit new friends and explore small villages nestled in the surrounding mountains. We will spend a day making portraits with a local indigenous family in traditional dress, with kids, aunts, uncles and grandparents all joining in. Then we’ll spend a few days exploring around majestic Lake Atitlan, completely by towering volcanoes considered sacred by the Mayans. Lonely Planet guidebooks calls Lake Atitlan “the most beautiful lake in the world,” and Doug wholeheartedly agrees! On the way to Lake Atitlan we stop in the village of San Andreas Ixtapa to visit the very active Mayan shrine for Maximon, known as the indigenous “patron saint of vices” where he is worshiped with many candles, rum and hand-rolled cigar smoke. We are often able to photograph fire rituals in the courtyard.
During our visit (and why these dates were chosen) we will be celebrating All Souls Day (Todos Santos) with its Catholic Processions winding through the cobblestone streets of Antigua, with Catholic residents in robes carrying many huge, richly decorated platforms housing local Saints. Then we witness the festivities surrounding Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) with the indigenous celebrating all night with candlelit vigils in colorfully decorated cemeteries. During the day families visit the cemeteries of departed loved one and picnic while children fly kites from graves that send messages to the heavens. These will be amazing photo opportunities!
Art Workshops in La Antigua, Guatemala will be hosting this workshop and has many years of experience organizing and planning these extraordinary workshops. They will also help you make travel arrangements for your flight in to Guatemala City and will arrange the 45 minute van ride to La Antigua. They can also help advise you about travel and accommodations before or after our workshop.
We invite all those searching to expand their artistic and creative horizons and explore new cultures. Emphasis is less on technique and more on increasing visual awareness of our surroundings and how to better interpret and express that photographically. The itinerary reflects Doug Beasley’s deep respect and passionate interest in indigenous peoples and the timeless quality of sacredness in their lives. He had made this trip over 12 times now and is one of his very favorite places in the world to visit and photograph. This workshop is appropriate for all levels, but must have a working knowledge of your camera. Spouses and partners also welcome to join us on this one. They will not be disappointed!
See some student photography from this workshop.
Student testimonials from this workshop:
“I came away with a better understanding of connecting with the people I photograph. I enjoyed being with you so much and the experience was awesome. Knowing your approach with people and sharing some of your philosophy meant so much to me.” — Jinny Lee, Sanford, NC
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“I came away with a better understanding of connecting with the people I photograph. I enjoyed being with you so much and the experience was awesome. Knowing your approach with people and sharing some of your philosophy meant so much to me.” — Jinny Lee, Sanford, NC
“Thank you for the instruction, which challenged me. Thank you for the conversation, which enlightened me. Thank you for the friendship, which warmed me.” — Chad Niemeyer, Cedar, MN
“I can’t believe it is a week since we got home, I can’t believe this workshop went by sooo fast. I can’t believe how great it was, and I can’t believe that I got to be there! I am so glad!! — Elizabeth Krey Jensen, Norway
“It was a life-changing week. I learned the difference between ‘taking’ photos and ‘making’ photos. When you take a photo you steal the spirit. When you make a photo you share the spirit. Thanks again for the great teaching/mentoring. You’re the best.” — Rev. Tracey Lind, Patterson, NJ
“I like the feeling of seeing life through the heart and the camera becoming the tool by which you hold the images. It takes hard work and discipline but I am grateful to have the opportunity to try. Meeting, observing, and working with you in Guatemala has provided me a big one. I believe life will give more.” — Clelia Belgrado, Genoa, Italy
“Thank you for opening my eyes to the artistic and spiritual world of photography!” — Andrea Olson, River Falls, WI
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Dates:
October 27 – November 5, 2011. Travel to Guatemala: October 27. Return home: November 5.
Class limit:
12
Cost:
$1,985.00. Includes tuition, lodging in a beautiful colonial style B&B, hearty breakfast and all ground transportation
Register
Call Liza Fourre at The Art Institute in La Antigua Guatemala for registration, itinerary or further information : 612-825-0747 (fax:612-825-6637) or eMail: info@artguat.org or visit her website at www.artguat.org.
