Exploring Cultural Heritage in the Art of Cuban-American Students
Author | : Bethel Dobberstein |
Publisher | : |
Total Pages | : 68 |
Release | : 2012 |
Genre | : |
ISBN | : |
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The following study explores how cultural heritage can reveal itself in the artwork of Cuban-American students. The goal for this research was to create an opportunity to use the making of narrative art by Cuban-American students as a means to explore and communicate their cultural heritage. The research method for obtaining information is qualitative, primarily participant observation and case study. The research was conducted during the teaching of an onsite art class in a culturally diverse area of Miami. The students, Cuban-Americans, interviewed their own families and then created artwork depicting their cultural stories. Whole class student discussions occurred before and after the students created their art. Individual interviews between the students and myself provided additional information. The students' comments, stories and reactions were documented and analyzed. The students' artwork was exhibited at their school, on a blog: www.blendingcolorswithcuba.blogspot.com and in the gallery of a local community art center. My capstone paper describes my research process, findings and recommendations. First, I discuss the relationship between cultural heritage and the effective teacher. Then, I describe how narrative art can increase cultural awareness among teachers and students. Finally, I share a key finding from this study: narrative art created from family stories is an authentic avenue for exploring cultural heritage. Additionally, I found that location, experiences and family dynamics influence a student's level of cultural knowledge. Recommendations include guidelines for culturally responsive teaching. I conclude this capstone paper with insights regarding the importance of understanding that a student0́9s perception of cultural heritage is oftentimes formed through the stories that he or she hears.