Belize @41 Mural Unveiled at Roger’s Stadium in Belize City
In recognition of Belize’s forty-first celebration of its independence, a mural was unveiled at the Roger’s Stadium in Belize City today. The painting, which seeks to depict the effects of climate change on the environment, and the hope of future transformation, was created by renowned visual artist Alex Sanker. News Five’s Paul Lopez was at the unveiling this afternoon. Here is that report.
Paul Lopez, Reporting
The Belize City Council, in collaboration with the National Celebrations Committee, and the Embassy of Taiwan in Belize, unveiled a mural at the Roger’s Stadium this afternoon. The mural was painted by renowned visual artist Alex Sanker. He explained the idea behind his art work.
Alex Sanker
Alex Sanker, Artist
“They have certain level of, different art, realism, abstract, semi- abstract, whatever. I am more of realism, even in my concept painting. But, to explore a different section I had to become more of a kid to try to get the message across. Because, the reality is with global warming, climate change, all of that, we as adults have failed these kids, which is the future of tomorrow. That is fact. What I wanted to do is something different. So, I talk to our mayor about it. We have to do something that represents the kids the future of tomorrow. So, that is what this painting is about.”
On a daily basis, hundreds of students walk this path along Roger’s Stadium. Sanker says those students were his inspiration. Minister of Education, Francis Fonseca, in his address, noted that the mural was strategically placed to spark conversation about Belize’s history and culture.
Francis Fonseca
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, and Science
“If you travel across the world, you will see in all of these vibrant societies, all of these vibrant cities, developing cities, you will see artistic expressions of their nature’s culture and history. It is very important for us to per severe that history, to promote that history, that culture. So it is important for us to have these painting telling the history of Belize, telling the story of our rich history and culture. And hopefully the young people you see passing here today, when they are coming from school will look ask questions and begin to think about their rich culture and history. That is the purpose of art, to stimulate thought, to stimulate discussion.”
This is the second mural painted on the wall in celebration of Belize’s Independence. Deputy Mayor Allan Pollard Jr. refers to this as a master piece.
Allan Pollard Jr.
Allan Pollard Jr., Deputy Mayor, Belize City Council
“What make it a masterpiece is not merely the vibrant colors of the lifelike illustrations you see. This mural is a masterpiece in the way it perfectly mirrors who we are as a nation. Our beauty is evident. Our value is unquestionable. But, just like this mural shows, we are still a work in progress. We have more dreams to realize and more work to get done, especially after these past two years of limitations. But as our theme for this year’s celebration reminds us, we are valiant, we are bold, and this is our time to rebound.”
Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.
