The article discusses the linguistic diversity in Portland, which reflects the city's immigrant population and their languages. A recent installation by artist Patricia Vázquez Gómez at PICA showcases the plight of Mayan youth and their struggle to maintain their native language, maayat'aan. Despite the city's commitment to support multiple languages, many minority tongues remain endangered. The immersive installation at PICA invites viewers to engage with intricate visuals and sounds, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage through art and community interaction.
Among the 715+ indigenous languages spoken in South and Central America, many of which are present among Portland's immigrant communities, only Spanish makes the city's list.
Minority immigrant languages often disappear after one generation, according to artist Patricia Vázquez Gómez, whose new immersive video installation explores the relationship between a group of Mayan youth and their mother tongue.
At PICA, viewers are offered beanbags to sit or lie on, immersing themselves in the unfolding sounds and images of five surrounding and overhead cinematic screens.
The film begins quietly with an overhead projection of a nocturnal water surface, a glimmer of light bringing the landscape into visibility.
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