The Art of Mexico visits West Jordan Middle School
Deago Revira has been called a modern day communist. His murals have been taken down as many times as they’ve been put up because of the controversy surrounding many of his paintings. Until recently, most students at West Jordan Middle School were more likely to recognize his ‘Google Doodle’ on the popular search engine than his original work. But that has changed.
In February, the art and music departments at the school are combining to bring the community “The Art of Mexico,” featuring the works of the late Revira and Frida Kahlo. The orchestra and band will be presenting some of the most popular music of Mexico, including Mariachi, and the choir will sing traditional folk songs
“We have this culture in our school,” said Cara Bailey, the visual arts teacher at West Jordan Middle. “We want to celebrate it, learn about it and share it.”
Art students have been learning about Revira and Kahlo’s styles, and also the important influence of The Day of the Dead, in Mexican art. They have created their own unique pieces that will be on display during the event.
“The Latinos in Action club will be hosts,” said Lauren Flygare, the band and orchestra teacher. “I want my students to be proud of their heritage. Sometimes they become so Americanized, they start to lose that connection.”
For the past few years, Bailey and Flygare have organized these multifaceted art nights with different themes. In the past, students have studied Spanish and American Cowboy art and music.
“We use these themes to make our students more aware of the art in the world,” Bailey said. “Deago was very political. He used his art to lift people up, to make statements and to change the world.”
The “Art of Mexico” open house is Feb. 7, 6-8 p.m. and is free to the public. Student work, as well as prints of Revira and Kahlo’s work, will be on display. The choir, band and orchestra will be performing continuously during the event and Spanish translators will be available.
“We invite everyone in the community to come be part of this full cultural experience,” Flygare said.
