THE METHODICAL IMPACT OF ART ON THE NEW SPAIN’S PEDAGOGY

Abstract

This article presents the results of theoretical-pedagogical research, the objective of which was to determine, through a documentary-bibliographic study, the methodical role of art in the pedagogy developed and practiced in New Spain. The study carried out shows that in all pedagogical areas developed in the New World, the compelling impact of art can be observed, in its axiological, intellectual, aesthetic, procedural, and methodological aspects. Regarding the methodology of teaching through the arts, the hybrid (missionary) pedagogy existed. Furthermore, given the linguistic difficulties (the evangelizers did not know the languages of the “new” continent, just as the natives did not speak Castilian, Latin, or other European languages) the friars used drawings, pictograms, dance, theater, and music to teach Christian doctrine to the indigenous people. Thus, the methodical effect of art on education from the beginning of the viceroyalty period is evident. Likewise, professional and technical education held a prominent place in New Spain, and within it, the methodology of teaching the arts played a fundamental role. To train stonemasons, blacksmiths, carpenters, bricklayers, tailors, shoemakers, artisans, sculptors, painters, and other craftspeople, the Schools of Arts and Crafts were established. Among these, the School of San José de los Naturales, founded by Friar Pedro de Gante, and the School of Tiripitío in Michoacán stand out. It was from these schools that the great indigenous builders and artists undoubtedly emerged, contributing significantly to the construction and decoration of nearly two hundred Catholic churches in the 16th century. Although documentary records of the indigenous labor employed in the execution of the architecture, sculpture, reliefs, and paintings of churches and monasteries are lacking, there can be found many pre-Hispanic influences in 16th-century buildings. This leads us to conclude that the friars themselves provided instruction to native artists, building upon the talent of the indigenous people and the skills they had already acquired in pre-Hispanic educational centers.