Guatemala: On the Edge of Discovery

Thursday February 23, 2023 – 6 to 8 PM
Faulkner Room, Santa Barbara Main Library
Ticket: FREE

Guatemala: On the Edge of Discovery

Explore and discover Guatemala, the beautiful beating heart of the Maya World. Get to know the land and people who are so often maligned and featured in the news. 

Guatemala is a small country – of epic proportions. There are countless archaeological sites to explore, reminders of the glories of the ancient Maya and the foundation of the country’s rich cultural heritage. There are twenty-three indigenous Maya languages and a small, but vibrant afro-Caribbean influence. Maya weavers, relying on ancient skills that seem to be embedded in their DNA, create textiles that are treasured throughout the world.

If that’s not enough, Guatemala is blessed with incredible biodiversity and a dramatic, ever-changing landscape. The smoking volcanos, black sand beaches, high mountain valleys, tropical forests, and World Heritage Sites like Tikal, Antigua, and Lake Atitlan are reason enough to visit. But, what you’ll never forget is the grace and charm of the people you’ll meet.

The comprehensive, authentic film has been described as a “beautiful encyclopedia entry with heart”. It celebrates what makes Guatemala unique, while introducing the challenges – income inequality, crime, environmental destruction, and brittle institutions – that plague the nation and drive migration.

Filmmaker Brent Winebrenner and Guatemalan Field Producer Jose Antonio Gonzalez will present Guatemala: On the Edge of Discovery followed by an informative Question and Answer session.

“This is a smart and beautiful film with a sensitive soul – truly one of the best of its kind.”

Patricia Schultz, Author 1000 Places to See Before You Die (Workman)

Guatemala Trailer.mov from brent winebrenner on Vimeo.