Photos: Adian Acevedo R / AThe work of art instructors is fundamental in terms of the development of culture and art in its different manifestations. These young people promote the Movement of Amateur Artists in the schools of the territory and in the workshops given at the House of Culture. Regarding the topic, I present the interview with Mayisleidis Álvarez Seguí (Mayi), head of the José Martí Art Instructors Brigade in San Antonio de los Baños.
Tell me about the beginnings of Mayi in the art world.
Since I was a little girl, I've always been interested in the arts, both in music and dance; I even got to practice both manifestations at the same time, but dance was always my favorite. At age 5, I joined the Horizontes dance group, until I was 14 years old. Then I was part of the dance group Esencia Latina, at the Casa de la Cultura of the municipality. There I was able to expand my knowledge about dance and my skills increased.
Why did you decide to integrate the Movement of Art Instructors and how was this stage of your life?
After being trained by exceptional dance teachers, I decide to opt for the Art Instructors career in the ninth grade. This was a period of many joys, great friendships and satisfactions, among popular, traditional and peasant dances, Cuban and international folklore, modern and contemporary dance, as well as music, theater and plastic arts workshops. I have a degree in Education in the specialty of art instructor, graduated from Artemisa University.
What importance do you give to the work of art instructors in schools and in the community?
The art instructor plays a fundamental role within the educational centers and the community since he has the mission to spread and take the arts everywhere. With the aim of brightening the lives of children and young people, adults and the elderly, educating through art, to elevate their culture.
What are the qualities required to become a promoter of community culture?
The art instructor must have artistic skills, but above all love for the profession of educating and teaching. Must be an example in school and in the community. The constant study and professional preparation are fundamental elements to raise the quality of the work carried out.
What is your job at the school where you work?
I work at the Alejandro González Brito primary school teaching appreciation-creation workshops, specifically in the dance training of schoolchildren and interdisciplinary workshops, where work unites the different manifestations of art. In addition to teaching, I attend the Movement of Amateur Dance Artists '' Horizons '' of the municipality.
What awards or recognitions have you obtained for your work in the Movement of Amateur Artists?
I have obtained several awards in the events held by the José Martí Brigade (Escaramujo, Danzarte, Buena Onda). In addition, provincial festivals, comparsas and carrosas, activities in Expocuba and Casa de Las Américas. The group of amateur artists is present in the neighborhoods, where they receive the greatest prize, bring art to everyone and receive the applause of the people.
You are the president of the José Martí Art Instructors Brigade in the municipality. What is your job at the head of the brigade?
Within the José Martí Brigade I am in charge of ensuring the work of the art instructors. The brigade always tries to keep the guerrillas and the cultural work of the instructors active. This is a consecrated work that we made with time and effort to raise the culture of the Ariguanabenses.