Poustinia Land Art Park

Poustinia Land Art Park Review

One of the most unusual attractions in Belize, Poustinia Land Art Park is a collection of about 30 original works by artists from a dozen countries, including Belize, Norway, Guayana, Brazil, Guatemala, and England, scattered about some 60 acres of a former cattle ranch. It's owned by an architect, who calls Poustinia an "environmental project." Poustinia is Russian for "desert of the soul." Among the works of outdoor art, which some would call funky and others fascinating, are "Downtown," by Venezuelan artist Manuel Piney, and "Returned Parquet," a reference to Belize's colonial history in mahogany parquet flooring by Tim Davies, a British artist. Getting around the park, which is open by appointment only, requires sometimes strenuous hiking. Bring insect repellent. Make arrangements to visit the park and for a tour guide at the Benque House of Culture in Benque Viejo. Two simple cabins at the site are available for rent "to artists and short-term visitors" for around BZ$80 per night. For information, contact the owner Luis Alberto Ruiz at 822-3532.