The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures emphasizes the bridge shared between Central America and Fort Collins by showcasing extraordinary arts and artifacts of the region. Ending on Sept. 21, the 2019 summer showcase has two exhibits that highlight Central American culture and the history of the Panama Canal.

The museum’s main gallery hosts the exhibit “Central America — Bridging Cultures,” which displays treasures from Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Belize and El Salvador. The exhibit utilizes ceramic and textile techniques of Central America such as huipil and mola, which bring color into the museum. The design and effort put into the main gallery shows the enthusiasm that over 40 residents of Northern Colorado have put into creating this exhibit. 

This exhibit shows how diverse a community is here in Fort Collins. It’s an educational experience and very colorful.” – Gisela Ham, volunteer at the Global Village Museum of Arts

“The exhibits have opened my eyes to the incredible culture and tradition of Central America,” said Gayle Warner, executive director for the Global Village Museum. “The colorful handwoven huipils, molas and baskets are a neat experience to see.”

The artifacts showcase a symbolic representation of Central American culture and bring an opportunity for Fort Collins residents to learn and explore international culture.

“This exhibit shows how diverse a community is here in Fort Collins,” said Gisela Ham, a volunteer at the Global Village Museum. “It’s an educational experience and very colorful.”

The Central American exhibit also showcases a series of expert program talks with local historians and experts. The next addition to the series is “Outmigration and Political Development in the Northern Triangle,” hosted by Stephen Mumme, a professor in Colorado State University’s department of history. 

“The current surge in Central Americans seeking migration to the United States has roots in decades of civil conflict and economic underdevelopment in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala,” said Leisa Taylor, outreach coordinator at Global Village Museum in a press release. “The enduring problems of governance contribute to social despair and the willingness to accept the considerable risks of migrating north.”

The Global Village Museum was established in 2002, and its statement has been to celebrate and bring the world’s diverse culture to Northern Colorado. It provides the opportunity to explore and discover international culture.

“The Global Village Museum is a community museum; all the art and artifacts are loaned by residents, collectors and international travelers right here in Northern Colorado,” Taylor said.

“Central America — Bridging Cultures” ends on Sept. 21. It is followed by two new exhibits opening on Oct. 4, “Dia de los Muertos — Day of the Dead Altars” and “Inspirational Women — Rising Through Adversity.”

Sam Sedoryk can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com or on Twitter @samsedoryk.