A Change in Focus

This was a submission by Mariel García Montes for YAHAnet's first contest in summer 2008.

Artist Statement:

When I learned the theme of the contest, I could not help but think of a popular proverb where I live:"When the hormone is turned on, the neuron turns off."   It is perhaps the most annoying thing an adult can tell a teenager who has begun to date people, but it is recognized that there is a lot of truth in the saying.

My work reflects what I consider is the essence of effective sex education after millions invested in it have not proven to give the expected results. Everyone knows how AIDS can make it into the human body; however, when the time to use this knowledge comes, feelings murder any rational attempt to make things change.

We need to change our focus on education. It is time to empower people to focus their feelings and not only their knowledge. Help them realize the value of life. Help them thrive for it.