I’m a bit embarrassed to say it… but my first visit to the “Museo de Historia, Antropología y Arte de Río Piedras,” or the museum at UPRRP, was actually last year. I recognize that many, if not most, of the enrolled students usually don’t visit the museum unless it’s for a class assignment. I didn’t expect my first interaction with the artwork and space to be like this, it felt like a safe space, a place that would make you feel welcome.
Retrieved from Pulso estudiantil
I gathered these main reasons to go as a student and a person who just wants new things to explore:
- It’s accessible
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It’s a free experience with a flexible schedule and has many activities for the public and the UPRRP community. You can use it as sacred alone time or a good excuse to just catch up with a friend.
- Variety
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It’s constantly renewing its exhibitions with a variety of themes connected to Puerto Rico and its history. In fact, there are many students working in the museum that are incredibly approachable, nice, and are always willing to explain: What’s new? Is there any information about the museum and its activities we don’t know yet? Plus, they have many social media platforms where they are constantly posting new exhibitions, tours, and social activities.
- Visually Aesthetic Spots
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It’s a perfect Instagramable moment! Museums are the best spot to add variety, color, and originality to what you add to your camera roll.
Photo taken by me from the Flora Borincana Exhibit
- Inspires creativity
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It’s a really good spot for drawing and writing. Grab a notebook or open the notes app and let yourself feel inspired by the art that surrounds you.
The museum is not as big and intimidating as you would think. You can go visit it in between classes and then keep going with your day. Every so often, they have an arts and crafts event, a writing exchange, or many other fun encounters that are just a nice thing to do to brighten your day. That is why I exhort you to give yourself the chance to go. Go every once in a while, I bet you’ll love it!
Museum go-ers often visit many in Puerto Rico, but there is a vast group of people that have yet to discover all of them. I’m still getting to know new art galleries and museums and it’s so fun when you finally go by yourself or with companions. Or even meet new people whilst you’re already there. They are the center and heart of the history, art, and culture in Puerto Rico. That is why we must cherish and never lose sight of the importance of these spaces. Just give it a chance as something brand-new for you, at least, that’s my tip.