On January 25, 2025, at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Quinta Normal, Chile, artist Alfredo Jaar officially donated two significant works to the university's collection, highlighting their global relevance.
The first piece, titled "Cien Años de Soledad (No realmente)," features neon lettering that critiques the manipulation of Latin American political systems by the United States, referencing Gabriel García Márquez's classic novel. This installation, created in 1985, was presented in honor of Rosa Devés, the first female rector of the University of Chile.
Alongside this, Jaar also donated "Estudios para la felicidad [1981(2023)]," a large-format installation displayed at the museum since September 2023, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Chilean coup d'état.
During the donation ceremony, Rector Devés emphasized the responsibility of the university towards the future of Chile, while Jaar expressed his gratitude for her leadership and the opportunity to contribute to the institution. The director of the museum, Daniel Cruz, noted that hosting Jaar's works enhances the museum's mission to engage the public with contemporary art.
Jaar's installations serve as critical reflections on the perceived independence of national states in Latin America, drawing attention to the historical context of U.S. interventions in the region. His work, previously featured in the exhibition "El lado oscuro de la luna" at the National Museum of Fine Arts, underscores the importance of understanding the complexities of Latin American identity.
This significant donation not only enriches the museum's collection but also fosters a dialogue on the role of contemporary art in addressing social and political issues.