2 minute read
By Yamilex Ramos Peguero
Fresh Perspectives
Connection of Art and Culture
By Yamilex Ramos Peguero Visitor Experience Associate, New Bedford Whaling Museum
Domingos Rebêlo, Tryptico Açoriano (estudo)/Azorean Triptych (study), circa 1920s. On loan to The New Bedford Whaling Museum courtesy of a private collector.
My name is Yamilex Ramos Peguero and I have worked at the New Bedford Whaling Museum since 2014. Throughout the years, I have worked in different departments, participated in a variety of workshops and trainings, and have served on multiple committees. By working with staff members from all departments, I have gained many skills that have made my experience at the museum memorable. I have seen numerous exhibits come and go; some have left a meaningful impact in my life and others have just been one of many. From each exhibit, I have learned something new and valuable. One subject that the museum has helped me acquire a new appreciation for is art. Two of the artists who have been the most impactful during my time here are Alison Wells and Domingos Rebêlo. In the Neighborhood, an exhibit by Alison Wells continues to be one of my top three favorite exhibits. Alison Wells draws from her Caribbean culture as inspiration for her artwork. Another memorable exhibit is The Azorean Spirit: The Art of Domingos Rebêlo. Rebêlo’s work displays the Azores, its beautiful culture and community.
Being from the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean helped me connect with Alison Wells
Alison Wells, In the Neighborhood, 2020. Acrylic and mixed media on canvas. Gift of Michael and Michelle Kelly. NBWM# 2021.53.
from the moment I met her. I remember walking into the Braitmayer Gallery and seeing these beautiful, colorful, and vibrant paintings. I was immediately drawn to them and eager to learn more about them. There was Alison, who was just as eager to talk about them. We talked about how she moved to New Bedford sorely for school, then she ended up falling in love with the city, its culture, and everything about the community. Walking alone into Braitmayer that day, turned into two people talking about, being passionate about their culture and loving their community. I later had the pleasure of meeting Jorge Rebêlo, guest curator and grandson of the late artist Domingos Rebêlo. Immediately upon meeting he greeted me warmly, as if we had known each other for years. I also found that same sense of familiarity in his grandfather’s art. There are scenes that remind me of my own Dominican culture. His art connected me so deeply with the community of the Azores, in a way that I might not have gotten to experience otherwise.
The two exhibits highlighted above, have been a learning stone for me personally, and I am sure, these have served the same purpose for others. Learning about different cultures through art, gives you a new appreciation for the interpersonal connections that can be made within our community. Art is a medium that breaks down barriers. It allows people to connect with each other, despite gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and age. I am fortune to work for a place that is accessible to the community. The New Bedford Whaling Museum, a place where community members feel represented and are encouraged to explore art, history, science, and culture.
