Costa Rica Ancestory Stamped in Ceramics

SLOWLY, very slowly, perhaps between times of meditation and prayers, the hands of the Spanish monk Antonio de Oteiza gave form to a collection of 35 pieces of ceramics, which are now on display at the Costa Rican Art Museum.

Oteiza came to Costa Rica 28 years ago from Spain and settled at the Capuchin Convent in Cartago.

His work reflects his vision of the life, costumes, social organization, beliefs, dances and traditions of the ancestors of Costa Rica.

The collection was displayed for the first time in 1976 at the school of fine arts at the University of Costa Rica.

OTEIZA gave all of his ceramics to architect Adrián Guzmán in thanks for constructing the convent for the Franciscans. Guzmán owns the pieces on display.

The collection of ceramics can be seen at the Costa Rican Art Museum, in the eastern part of SabanaPark, until mid-June.

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Sundays the exhibit can be seen free from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 222-7155 for more information.