Tablas de Sarhua and Their Contribution to Memory: From the Series Piraq Kausa Kaykunapaq (“Who Could Be to Blame?” by the Association of Popular Artists of Sarhua) to the Painting Manchay Puncha: January 24 (Day of the Tremor by Venuca Evanán)

Abstract

Two pivotal points in the history of the Tablas de Sarhua are highlighted in the essay, where the promoters shifted from costumbrist contents to themes of social denunciation and memory. It analyses the series of boards Piraq Kausa Kaykunapaq (¿Who Could Be to Blame?) created by the Asociación de Artistas Populares de Sarhua (ADAPS) in 1990– 1993. These paintings depict the violence experienced by Sarhua's residents during the internal armed conflict, becoming an authentic source of historical memory. Unfortunately, the artists of ADAPS were negatively impacted when their work was mistaken for an apology for terrorism or “terruqueo”. Despite the matter was resolved, Venuca Evanán created the piece called Manchay Puncha: 24 de enero (Day of the Tremor) in 2018. In this piece, the artist reflects the pain caused by the accusation and underscores how Sarhua Boards continue to convey thought-provoking events. Despite the blow received by the “terruqueo”, Venuca shows us that it is possible to respond and defend oneself through artistic tools and proposals, without resorting to violence. Her work stands as an example of resistance in the face of adversity.