Reflections from Colombia: Art, Culture and Resilience

I’m excited to share with you a recent, transformative experience that has deeply resonated with me as the director of Inyo Council for the Arts. As part of my ongoing commitment to exploring the intersection of arts, culture, and social change, I had the privilege of visiting Colombia —an incredible country that has undergone profound shifts in recent years.

My trip took me to several small communities within the cities of Bogotá, Medellin and Cartagena, that were once caught in the grips of violence but have, through resilience and the power of community-driven arts and culture, transformed into thriving hubs of tourism and creative expression. What I witnessed was nothing short of inspiring.

In these small communities, local artists, musicians, dancers, and craftspeople have become not only the stewards of their cultural heritage but also the driving forces of their communities’ rebirth. Through their art and storytelling, these communities have been able to reclaim their narratives, express their stories of struggle and survival, and create new opportunities for future generations. The vibrant graffiti art on the sides of buildings, the traditional music with a modern twist filling the streets, the commitment to honoring and sustaining the biodiversity of agricultural, environmental and native resources, and the intricate handwoven textiles all speak to the resilience and creativity that define these areas today.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this transformation is the role that tourism has played in this shift. As Colombia has steadily become a global destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences, these small communities are now welcoming visitors with open arms—offering not just beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks, but also a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the lives of the people who live there. Tourism, when approached with respect and understanding, has become a powerful tool for healing, growth, and an economic alternative to violence.

What stands out most to me is the connection between the arts and this transition. Art has the unique ability to heal, to tell difficult stories, and to create connections across cultural divides. It has provided these communities with a way to move forward, economically and emotionally, while honoring their past. The work being done in Colombia serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative potential of the arts, both on a personal and societal level.

As we reflect on the lessons learned from Colombia, I am reminded of the important work that we do here at Inyo Council for the Arts, and the essential role of all our local and regional arts organizations in the Eastern Sierra. Like these communities, we are constantly striving to create spaces where art and culture can bring about meaningful change—whether it’s through empowering local artists, supporting community engagement, or providing a platform for underrepresented voices.

I am deeply grateful for your continued support as we embark on this journey together. The arts have the power to shape lives and communities, and your involvement allows us to continue our mission of creating lasting impact.

Thank you for being a part of our vision. I look forward to sharing more insights from this trip and our ongoing work as we continue to build a future where the arts can be a beacon of hope, healing, and transformation.

Warmly,

Sharon Freilich, Director, Inyo Council for the Arts

Inyo Council for the Arts | Art Enriches Lives

“Empowering Artistry, Enriching Community, and Fueling Creativity in Inyo County since 1983.“

Mission: Inyo Council for the Arts (ICA) champions local artists, organizations, and arts education through outreach and collaboration. By supporting and celebrating the unique talents of our multicultural communities, we enable the arts to flourish and ignite positive change in our region.

Vision: The arts have the power to transform lives, to connect people and cultures, and to encourage creative exploration — we here at Inyo Council for the Arts are dedicated to fostering the arts in Inyo County. ICA envisions itself as a vibrant hub of art and culture events, programs, and activities that connect our diverse communities.