The article discusses Giana de Dier's first exhibition in Spain, which recreates a historic neighborhood of Panama City through collages that highlight often overlooked stories.
Giana de Dier, a Panamanian artist, has inaugurated her first exhibition in Spain titled 'Postcards of Memory: Visual Annotations of Unforgotten Places'. The exhibit focuses on the Afro-Caribbean heritage of Panama and aims to resurrect the memory of the Terraplén, an emblematic area of Panama City that has undergone significant transformation due to gentrification. By using a series of collages, the artist portrays the everyday lives of individuals who once inhabited this bustling port area, emphasizing their stories and contributions, which have often been marginalized or forgotten.
The Terraplén, established in 1915, was a vibrant market and port, serving as a hub for fisherfolk, vendors, migrants, and local families before gentrification altered its landscape. This exhibition seeks to not only showcase the artistic representation of the area but also to provoke thought about the socio-economic changes that have impacted the community. De Dier's collages serve as a narrative tool, allowing viewers to engage with the rich, albeit overlooked, history of the Afro-Caribbean community in Panama.
Through her creative endeavors, Giana de Dier aims to raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage and the narratives that have shaped Panama's identity. This exhibition not only highlights the artist's individual perspective but also invites a broader conversation about memory, identity, and the enduring impact of gentrification on cultural spaces.
