Antonio Paucar Wins Artes Mundi Prize, Plans Cultural Centre in Peru

Antonio Paucar, an artist and beekeeper from the Andes region of Peru, has been awarded the prestigious Artes Mundi prize, which includes a £40,000 grant intended for the establishment of a cultural centre in his home country. Paucar's work, showcased at various galleries across Wales, includes a diverse range of pieces, such as a spiral made from alpaca wool and a poignant video in which he writes a poem about environmental crises using his own blood. The Artes Mundi prize aims to elevate the profiles of underrecognized artists globally, with Paucar's work being part of an exhibition expected to attract around 150,000 visitors.

The Guardian

Paucar's artistic expression is deeply rooted in his Andean heritage and environmental concerns. He emphasizes the interconnectedness of life through the concept of "Ayni," a Quechua term that signifies reciprocity between humans and nature. His piece, "La Energía Espiral del Ayni," reflects this philosophy, illustrating the balance that Andean culture maintains with the environment. Paucar's approach to art is not only a personal journey but also a means to advocate for cultural preservation and environmental awareness.

The Guardian

In his work "El Corazón de la Montaña," Paucar poignantly addresses climate change, stating, “The glaciers in the Andes are crying/With their mournful cry they melt forever.” This sentiment underscores his commitment to raising awareness about the ecological challenges facing his region.

The Guardian

While Paucar's work has garnered significant attention, it has not been without criticism. Art critic Jonathan Jones expressed disapproval of a performance piece where Paucar buried and burned a reproduction of Marcel Duchamp’s "Bicycle Wheel," suggesting that the performance may only resonate with a niche audience familiar with Duchamp's legacy. Paucar, however, maintains that this piece references his childhood experiences and respects Duchamp's influence.

The Guardian

Despite mixed reviews, Paucar's work has sparked discussions about the parallels between Andean and Celtic cultures, particularly in their shared connection to nature. Nigel Prince, director of Artes Mundi, highlighted the importance of these cultural dialogues in a global context that often emphasizes division.

The Guardian

Paucar's plans for the prize money include the construction of a cultural centre in Peru, aimed at fostering artistic and cultural development in his community. He expressed the significance of this recognition, stating, “For me this kind of recognition is very important for my region, my country, my culture. It gives me strength to continue developing new projects.” His vision reflects a commitment to not only his artistic practice but also to the broader cultural landscape of the Andes.

The Guardian

• “I didn’t expect it. The journey of an artist is very difficult. For me this kind of recognition is very important for my region, my country, my culture. It gives me strength to continue developing new projects.” — Antonio Paucar, Artist

The Guardian

• “The glaciers in the Andes are crying/With their mournful cry they melt forever.” — Antonio Paucar, Artist

The Guardian

• “In today’s global context, where there often can be an emphasis on focusing on difference as a means to divide and rend apart, I actually think that opens up a sort of sharing and a dialogue.” — Antonio Paucar, Artist

The Guardian

Antonio Paucar's recognition through the Artes Mundi prize not only highlights his individual artistic achievements but also serves as a platform for broader cultural and environmental discussions. His commitment to his heritage and the pressing issues facing the Andes reflects a deep understanding of the role of art in society.

The Guardian