"Between Tradition And Oblivion" Culture, Art And Human Development: An Analysis Of Cultural And Artistic Promotion; From The Perspective Of Local Actors In Cárdenas, Tabasco.

Abstract

The study analyzes the promotion of culture and art in the city of Cárdenas, Tabasco, from a qualitative perspective. To this end, human development, considered as the level of integral well-being of a population, and culture, conceived as the various expressions of the person related to their beliefs, traditions and ways of life, were taken as a reference.

The research reveals a rich cultural tradition in the municipality since the 1970s. However, there is currently a marked discontent among artistic collectives due to the lack of municipal support for their activities. Cultural infrastructure is in precarious conditions, underutilized or in disuse, mainly due to lack of investment, resulting in a lack of satisfaction of the demand for cultural and artistic services.

The recently created "José Valeriano y Maldonado" Cultural Center is perceived as the only viable option, although insufficient for artistic-cultural activities. The participants recognize the management efforts of the work team of this venue, but point out that it does not cover all the needs of the sector.

This situation forces artists and promoters to constantly look for alternative spaces to continue their work of promotion and artistic exhibition in the municipality.

The study contributes to reflection on the theory of human development and its relationship with the economy and social welfare. In addition, it opens the door to future research on municipal public policies in cultural matters, an area often underestimated in local administrations.

The findings underscore the importance of reassessing the role of culture and art in local development, as well as the need for greater investment and institutional support to strengthen the cultural sector in Cárdenas, Tabasco.