Introduction to the Arts

INTRODUCTION

One cannot think of Latin America today without thinking of its vibrant arts—the music, the painting and sculpture, the architecture, dance, and so much more. Many of the Latin American visual arts have their bases in the cultures of its pre-Columbian peoples, with their rich traditions of weaving, pottery, metalwork, lapidary art, feather work, and mosaics. After the conquest, native art was strongly influenced by the introduction of Christianity and European art. The arrival of slaves in the 16th century brought African influences to the rapidly evolving art traditions. Subsequent immigration from other parts of the world has added to this mix. The blending of the varied cultural styles has produced elaborately ornamented cathedrals, vibrant textiles, monumental paintings and murals, and exquisite sculptures.