By Stabroek News
Copyright stabroeknews
Dear Editor,
Over the years I have consistently written letters to the Editor stating that creativity is essential in the growth and development of any society, in that it drives innovation in the Arts, Culture, Sciences and Technology. Without creativity society would stagnate. Creativity is a foundational requirement for human development. Edwardo Galeano in his magnificent exposition “Open Veins of Latin America” echoes this same sentiment.
How long will Guyana continue to charter a course of relative backwardness in which creativity is overshadowed by narrow domestic politics and the dictates of Guyanese politicians? Will senior Guyanese artists who were deliberately left out over the past five years receive grants for public works? I remember well how the late Guyanese sculptor Derek Boston, though sick continued to work, brought out his artistic gems and displayed them in Main Street, Georgetown and many days he returned home without any sale.
As for myself I have struggled for years to restore the public work made of concrete titled “BEFORE COLUMBUS” that I made 45 years ago when I returned to Guyana. I had approached the big business houses but to no avail. Now this monument authentically represents our Pre-Colombian heritage which is a platform for not only Guyanese Cultural Identity but the entire region. As a full-time artist, 45 years later I still hold firm to the belief that Art can promote Peace and help create a better world.
Desmond Alli
National Unity Monument
